Definition

Noun: A person who wields significant power and influence, especially one who is instrumental in making things happen, initiating changes, or shaping events within a particular field, industry, or society.

Usage

This term is used to describe an influential and active person, often in business, politics, or culture, who drives progress, innovation, or reform. It emphasizes a combination of action ("mover") and the ability to cause disruption or change ("shaker").

Examples

• She is considered a mover and shaker in the tech industry, having founded several successful startups.
• The conference brought together the movers and shakers of contemporary art.
• To get this policy passed, we need the support of the political movers and shakers.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in the plural form "movers and shakers" to refer collectively to a group of influential people.
• It can sometimes carry a slightly informal or journalistic tone, praising someone's dynamism and impact.

Variants and Related Words

• Power broker (n): A person who exerts influence by controlling votes or resources, often behind the scenes.
• Influencer (n): A person who affects the opinions, behaviors, or decisions of others. (In modern contexts, this often refers to social media.)
• Trendsetter (n): A person who leads in establishing new trends, especially in fashion or culture.

Synonyms

• Influential figure
• Power player
• Heavyweight
• Catalyst

Antonyms

• Bystander
• Follower
• Nonentity
• Figurehead (when implying a lack of real power)

Idioms and Phrases

• A force to be reckoned with: A person or thing considered powerful and worthy of respect or caution. This idiom shares the connotation of significant influence and impact.
  • After her latest success, she is truly a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Noun

1. a person who wields power and influence
   • a shaker of traditional beliefs
   • movers and shakers in the business world