influential

1 of 2

adjective

in·​flu·​en·​tial ˌin-(ˌ)flü-ˈen(t)-shəl How to pronounce influential (audio)
Synonyms of influentialnext
: exerting or possessing influence
influentially adverb

influential

2 of 2

noun

: one who has great influence

Examples of influential in a Sentence

Adjective His theories have become more influential in recent years. My parents have been the most influential people in my life.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Yes, Tiger is still the most influential golfer who ever lived. Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 Apr. 2026 Woods is the most influential figure in golf and has become as recognizable as any athlete in the world. R.j. Rico, Fortune, 3 Apr. 2026
Noun
In 1938 the area was once again declared a Game Reserve, with British conservationist Norman Carr influential in its establishment. Sarah Kingdom, Forbes.com, 22 Feb. 2026 On the right, Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist influential in MAGA circles, captured the mood from the base. Jesus Mesa, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for influential

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1570, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1831, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of influential was in 1570

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Influential.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/influential. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

influential

adjective
in·​flu·​en·​tial
ˌin-(ˌ)flü-ˈen-chəl
: having influence
influentially
-ˈench-(ə-)lē
adverb

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