Influence

in·flu·ence

 from Latin influent-, influens, influere to flow in, FLUID 14th century

: an ethereal fluid held to flow from the stars and to affect the actions of humans
: an emanation of occult power held to derive from stars
: an emanation of spiritual or moral force

: the act or power of producing an effect without apparent exertion of force

: corrupt interference with authority for personal gain

: the power or capacity of causing an effect in indirect or intangible ways : SWAY

: under the influence : affected by alcohol : DRUNK
 
 

synonyms INFLUENCE, AUTHORITY, PRESTIGE,
WEIGHT, CREDIT mean power exerted over the minds or behavior of others.

INFLUENCE may apply to a force exercised and received consciously or unconsciously.

AUTHORITY implies the power of winning devotion or allegiance or of compelling acceptance and belief

PRESTIGE implies the ascendancy given by conspicuous excellence or reputation for superiority

WEIGHT implies measurable or decisive influence in determining acts or choices

CREDIT suggests influence that arises from the confidence of others

pres·tige

from Latin praestigiae, plural, conjuror's tricks, from praestringere to graze, blunt, constrict, from prae- + stringere to bind tight -- more at STRAIN Date: 1829

: standing or estimation in the eyes of people : weight or credit in general opinion

: commanding position in people's minds synonym see INFLUENCE

sway

: the action or an instance of swaying or of being swayed
: an oscillating, fluctuating, or sweeping motion
: an inclination or deflection caused by or as if by swaying
: a controlling influence : sovereign power
: DOMINION : the ability to exercise influence or authority : DOMINANCE

synonym see POWER