Definitions

sphere of influence

NOUN

geographical area of influence

Synonyms

WEAK

ambit bailiwick mandate mandated territory niche orbit power base territory

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.

Orion's next milestone, set to take place on day five of the 10-day mission, is to enter the lunar sphere of influence, where the Moon's gravitational pull exceeds that of the Earth, according to NASA.

From Barron's • Apr. 4, 2026

And the Southeastern Conference has expanded its sphere of influence to include Austin, Texas, and Norman, Okla.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 8, 2025

The Monroe Doctrine dates back to the U.S. president in 1823 who articulated his opposition to further European colonization of Latin America which he asserted would henceforth be a U.S. sphere of influence.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 30, 2025

It must therefore seek to survive within the de facto sphere of influence of its hostile neighbor.

From Slate • Mar. 19, 2025

She seized the opportunity to show off her wealth and gain a wider sphere of influence in the eastern provinces.

From "Sterling Biographies®: Cleopatra: Egypt's Last and Greatest Queen" by Susan Blackaby