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

Vintage clothing influencer Vivien Tang also buys and sells on resale websites.

From BBC

The finding suggests that preclinical studies until now have overlooked a major influencer of mouse physiology.

From Science Daily

Their plan is not to be influencers, forever known as “the guys on the bridge,” he adds, but to use their social media presence to “speak about something powerful.”

From Los Angeles Times

And sometimes, Motta says, scientists should step back from the fray and lean on communicators such as social media influencers to spread messages for them.

From Science Magazine

Many social media influencers claim that seed oils contain toxins.

From Salon

Related Words

• bellwether
• tastemaker