Sneaker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Cultural Impact

• Sneakers have become a significant part of streetwear fashion, influencing music and pop culture since the 1980s.
• Brands like Nike and Adidas have turned sneakers into collectibles, with limited releases often selling for thousands of dollars.
• In films and sports, iconic sneaker moments have been created, linking them to famous athletes and celebrities.

Sports Science

• Sneakers are designed with advanced cushioning technology to support athletic performance and reduce injury risk.
• Different sneaker types are specialized for various activities, such as running, basketball, or hiking, catering to unique foot movements.
• The industry continually innovates with sustainable materials, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of sneaker production.

Psychology

• Wearing sneakers has been shown to boost confidence and encourage physical activity, as comfort is key to movement.
• Footwear choice influences social perception; sneakers often signify youthfulness and casualness in various cultures.
• Studies suggest that consumers connect emotional experiences with their sneakers, often leading to brand loyalty.

History

• The first rubber-soled athletic shoes were created in the 1830s, but sneakers didn’t gain popularity until the 20th century.
• During the 1920s, the Keds brand released the first mass-produced sneakers, making them accessible to the general public.
• The introduction of basketball sneakers in the 1940s transformed the game and influenced sneaker design for sports.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'sneaker' comes from the late 19th century, originally used to describe quiet shoes that could 'sneak' around unseen.
• Originally called 'plimsolls', the term evolved as rubber-soled shoes gained popularity.
• In the 1960s, the name became widely accepted in America as the shoes became associated with sport and leisure.

The term 'sneaker' originated in the late 19th century in the United States. It is believed to have been coined by the sports promoter Henry Nelson McKinney, who described the soft rubber sole of the shoe, which allowed wearers to 'sneak' up on someone without making noise. Initially, sneakers were called 'plimsolls' in the UK, which referred to a specific type of canvas shoe with a rubber sole. As athletic activities gained popularity in the early 20th century, sneakers became widely used in various sports. The rise of athletic brands, particularly during the mid-20th century, further popularized the sneaker culture, leading to the diverse styles and commercial success of sneakers we see today.

This word's position of #34,757 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

• ...
• 34754 harpy
• 34755 incapability
• 34756 flaying
• 34757 sneaker
• 34758 ruminated
• 34759 scone
• 34760 viceregal
• ...