influencer
Americannoun
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a person or thing that influences.
The most powerful influencer of beliefs is direct experience.
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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.
Etymology
Origin of influencer
First recorded in 1660–70; influence ( def. ) + -er 1 ( def. )
Explanation
Someone who uses their online reputation to prompt people to buy things is an influencer. Don't spend all your money on an expensive sweater just because it looked great on an influencer! Influencers are online celebrities, most of whom found their fame on social media platforms. The most popular influencers hold a lot of clout, whether they're publicizing a lifestyle, demonstrating a gadget, or modeling clothing. These internet stars can make a lot of money promoting products for big companies by using their influence over their followers. In addition to this recent definition of influencer, you can also use it for anyone who holds sway over other people's opinions or actions.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Two of Musk’s most incisive critics, his ex-wife Justine Musk and former right-wing influencer Ashley St. Clair, describe him as a gaslighter and a nuke, respectively.
From Salon ● Oct. 16, 2026
Activist and social media influencer Dhruv Rathee, detained from his home, was also released.
From Barron's ● Oct. 11, 2026
Shoppers, particularly younger ones, are increasingly seeking products online through influencer ads rather than heading to brick-and-mortar shops.
From BBC ● Oct. 9, 2026
A social media influencer accused of ripping off wealthy suitors is competent to stand trial in Los Angeles County on criminal charges that she seduced and stole from rich men, a judge announced Friday.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 9, 2026
He will be the prime influencer in everything, and we may depend upon him as a man equally enlightened and liberal.
From The Diplomatic Correspondence of the American Revolution, Volume X (of 12) by Various
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