persuasion

n. [ L. persuasio; Cf. F. persuasion. ] 1. The act of persuading; the act of influencing the mind by arguments or reasons offered, or by anything that moves the mind or passions, or inclines the will to a determination. [ 1913 Webster ]

For thou hast all the arts of fine persuasion. Otway. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. The state of being persuaded or convinced; settled opinion or conviction, which has been induced. [ 1913 Webster ]

If the general persuasion of all men does so account it. Hooker. [ 1913 Webster ]

My firm persuasion is, at least sometimes,
That Heaven will weigh man's virtues and his crimes
With nice attention. Cowper. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. A creed or belief; a sect or party adhering to a certain creed or system of opinions; as, of the same persuasion; all persuasions are agreed. [ 1913 Webster ]

Of whatever state or persuasion, religious or political. Jefferson. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. The power or quality of persuading; persuasiveness. [ 1913 Webster ]

Is 't possible that my deserts to you
Can lack persuasion? Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

5. That which persuades; a persuasive. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

Syn. -- See Conviction. [ 1913 Webster ]