'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 'the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.'