sneaker

American  

[snee-ker] / ˈsni kər /

noun

1. a high or low shoe, usually of fabric such as canvas, with a rubber or synthetic sole.

2. one who sneaks; a sneak.

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Etymology

Origin of sneaker

First recorded in 1590–1600; sneak + -er ¹

Example Sentences

He reminisced about his mother buying him only generic “plastic” sneakers, then shared some of the discomfort he experienced when he moved into the nicer Brooklyn Heights neighborhood after he had some musical success.

From Los Angeles Times

As a college student in Portland, Ore., Ochuko Akpovbovbo knew she wanted to work for Adidas or Nike—not just because she loved sneakers, but to immerse herself in their corporate culture.

From The Wall Street Journal

The iconic sneaker maker has fallen behind its competition, and its latest disappointing earnings report prompted a selloff before Cook’s disclosure.

From The Wall Street Journal

It feels faintly pastoral — hunting and gathering — translated into an urban evening, conducted in sneakers and leggings under fluorescent lights.

From Salon

And the choreographer, Katie Spelman, does wonderful work, for instance expressing the nervous energy of the students with precise and funny twitching of their sneakers under their desks.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• cleat
• footwear
• shoe
• tennis shoe