Influencer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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influencer

[ˈɪn.flu.ən.sər ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

social media

An influencer is someone who has the power to affect the purchasing decisions of others because of his or her authority, knowledge, position, or relationship with his or her audience.

Synonyms

opinion leader, social media star, trendsetter.

Examples of usage

Many companies are now using influencers to promote their products on social media platforms.
She has become a successful influencer by sharing her fashion tips and recommendations online.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Social Media

Influencers often use platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to share content and connect with audiences.
Micro-influencers (those with smaller but highly engaged audiences) are becoming increasingly valuable for brands.

Business

Brands often collaborate with influencers to reach wider audiences, as they trust their recommendations.
Influencer marketing is projected to become a billion-dollar industry, highlighting its impact on advertising.

Psychology

People are more likely to trust recommendations from peers, including influencers, over traditional advertisements.
Psychological 'social proof' suggests that individuals often look to others for cues on how to behave or what to purchase.

Pop Culture

Reality TV stars have transitioned into influential figures, shaping trends in fashion and lifestyle.
The rise of influencers has led to the phenomenon of 'cancel culture', where public figures can quickly gain or lose followers.

Origin of 'influencer'

Main points about word origin

The term 'influencer' gained popularity in the early 2000s with the rise of social media platforms.
It derives from the word 'influence', which comes from Latin 'influencia', meaning 'flowing in'.

The term 'influencer' originated from the verb 'influence' in the mid-17th century, with the addition of the suffix '-er' to denote a person who influences others. The concept of influencers has evolved with the rise of social media, where individuals with large followings have the power to sway opinions and trends.