influential

[ in-floo-en-shuhl ]

adjective

1. having or exerting influence, especially great influence:

   three influential educators.

   Synonyms: important, forceful, consequential

noun

1. a person who exerts or can exert strong influence:

   according to influentials of the fashion industry.

influential

/ ˌɪnflʊˈɛnʃəl /

adjective

1. having or exerting influence

Derived Forms

• ˌinfluˈentially, adverb

Other Words From

• influ·ential·ly adverb
• nonin·flu·ential adjective
• nonin·flu·ential·ly adverb
• over·influ·ential adjective
• quasi-influ·ential adjective
• quasi-influ·ential·ly adverb
• unin·flu·ential adjective
• unin·flu·ential·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of influential¹

First recorded in 1560–70; from Medieval Latin influenti(a) “stellar emanation” ( influence ) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

Tanton drew on the views of some of America’s most influential environmentalists.

From Salon

The case stems from a lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles alleging that the unit was run by a “SWAT Mafia” of influential veteran cops who “glamorize the use of lethal force.”

From Los Angeles Times

While the Heritage Foundation did not write the GOP's platform, the think tank is undoubtedly influential in Republican policymaking.

From Salon

Buck’s two-week trial highlighted a dangerous underworld of sex work, where an influential, wealthy man exploited poor, addicted Black men.

From Los Angeles Times

It was one of several California races seen as influential in determining which party will control the House next year.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• authoritative
• dominant
• famous
• important
• leading
• persuasive
• prominent
• significant
• strong