Definition

Noun: - A person who uses their connections, especially to people in positions of power or authority, to gain favors or advantages for others, typically in exchange for money or other compensation. This activity often involves unethical, underhanded, or illegal methods.

Usage

The term is used to describe an individual who trades on their access to influential people. It carries a strong negative connotation, implying corruption, secrecy, and the bypassing of proper, legal channels. - The scandal revealed that the mayor was taking bribes from a well-known influence peddler. - He made his fortune not as a businessman, but as an influence peddler who could get government contracts for his clients.

Advanced Usage

• The concept is often associated with political corruption, lobbying (when done unethically), and "insider" dealings where access is commodified.
• While similar to a lobbyist, an "influence peddler" typically implies a lack of transparency and the use of personal favors rather than formal advocacy.

Variants and Related Words

• Fixer (n): A person who makes arrangements or solves problems, often by using unofficial or questionable methods. An influence peddler is often a type of fixer.
• Power broker (n): A person who influences the distribution of power and who can control which people get positions of authority. This term is broader and can be less overtly negative than "influence peddler."

Synonyms

• Fixer
• Conniver
• Wheeler-dealer (informal)

Related Phrases

• To peddle influence: The verb form describing the activity of an influence peddler.
  • He was accused of peddling influence to secure the construction permit.

Noun

1. someone who intervenes with authorities for a person in trouble (usually using underhand or illegal methods for a fee)