According to dictionary.com:
[lev-er-ij, lee-ver-]
Show IPA noun, verb,-aged, -ag·ing.-noun2.the mechanical advantage or power gained by using a lever.
3.power or ability to act or to influence people, events, decisions, etc.; sway: Being the only industry in town gave the company considerable leverage in its union negotiations.
4.the use of a small initial investment, credit, or borrowed funds to gain a very high return in relation to one's investment, to control a much larger investment, or to reduce one's own liability for any loss.
-verb (used with object)5.to exert power or influence on.
6.to provide with leverage.
7.to invest or arrange (invested funds) using leverage.