influencer

[in-floo-uhn-ser]

noun

1. a person or thing that influences.

   The most powerful influencer of beliefs is direct experience.

2. a person who has the power to influence many people, as through social media or traditional media.

   Companies look for Facebook influencers who can promote their brand.

Word History and Origins

Origin of influencer¹

First recorded in 1660–70; influence ( def. ) + -er ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

The second episode drew criticism for its parody of Charlie Kirk, the slain political influencer, despite the episode airing weeks before his death.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“I feel like it’s influencer bait over there,” he said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Inside the convention hall, Kikiglow’s booth was swarmed by influencers wielding camera sticks as they lined up for free samples.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The client heard a social-media influencer rave about the steady passive income stream that real estate would bring.

Read more on MarketWatch

TikTok influencer HSTikkyTokky has been arrested after being on the run from police for almost a year following alleged driving offences.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• bellwether 
• tastemaker