01 n. A flowing in or upon; influx.
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1.
A flowing in or upon; influx.[Obs.]“God hath his influence into the very essence of all things.” — Hooker.
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2.
Hence, in general, the bringing about of an effect, physical or moral, by a gradual process; controlling power quietly exerted; agency, force, or tendency of any kind which affects, modifies, or sways; as, the influence which the sun exerts on animal and vegetable life; the influence of education on the mind; the influence, according to astrologers, of the stars over affairs.“Astrologers call the evil influences of the stars, evil aspects.” — Bacon.“Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion?” — Job xxxviii. 31.“She said : “Ah, dearest lord! what evil star On you hath frown'd, and poured, his influence bad?”” — Spenser.
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3.
Power or authority arising from elevated station, excelence of character or intellect, wealth, etc.; reputation; acknowledged ascendency; as, he is a man of influence in the community.“Such influence hath your excellency.” — Sir P. Sidney.
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4.
Induction.(Elec.)
Syn.
Control; persuasion; ascendency; sway; power; authority; supremacy; mastery; management; restraint; character; reputation; prestige.