'influence' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'influere,' where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'fluere' meant 'to flow.'

'influere' transformed into the Old French word 'influence,' and eventually became the modern English word 'influence' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'an inflow or influx,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having an effect on someone or something.'