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Sneakers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sneakers

[ˈsniː.kərz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

footwear brand

Sneakers are a type of footwear primarily designed for sports or other forms of physical exercise. They typically have a rubber sole and are made of flexible materials such as canvas or leather. Sneakers are known for their comfort and casual style.

Synonyms

athletic shoes, kicks, trainers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sneakers

Used commonly in casual conversations and general references to sports shoes. Suitable when talking about everyday use or informal settings.

  • I bought a new pair of sneakers yesterday
  • Sneakers are great for walking around the city
trainers

Commonly used in British English. Suitable for conversations in the UK or when aiming to use British terminology.

  • I need to buy a new pair of trainers for my gym sessions
  • In the UK, people often say trainers instead of sneakers
kicks

Slang term, highly informal. Often used in youth culture and when trying to sound trendy or modern. Might be seen in social media or casual conversations among younger people.

  • Check out these new kicks I got! Those kicks are fresh
athletic shoes

Formal term often used in commercial, professional, or technical contexts. Suitable when discussing sports equipment or in official communications.

  • Athletic shoes are designed to enhance performance during sports activities
  • The store has a wide range of athletic shoes for all types of sports

Examples of usage

  • I love wearing my sneakers to the gym.
  • She prefers sneakers over high heels for everyday wear.
Context #2 | Noun

informal term

In informal usage, sneakers refer to any casual footwear, not just those designed for sports. This term is commonly used in American English.

Synonyms

casual shoes, everyday footwear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sneakers

Used in casual or athletic settings. Suitable for sports, exercising, or a relaxed style. Often designed for comfort and performance.

  • He wore sneakers to the gym
  • She paired her new dress with a stylish pair of sneakers
casual shoes

Appropriate for informal occasions, such as daily errands, casual gatherings, or relaxed office environments. Can range from loafers to simple lace-up shoes.

  • He opted for casual shoes instead of dress shoes for the informal meeting
  • Her casual shoes perfectly matched her laid-back outfit
everyday footwear

General term for shoes worn on a daily basis. It emphasizes practicality and comfort over style or specific use.

  • Comfortable everyday footwear is essential for a long day on your feet
  • She always chooses practical everyday footwear for her job

Examples of usage

  • He slipped on his sneakers before heading out for a walk.
  • Can I wear sneakers to the party or do I need dress shoes?

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Impact

  • Sneakers became a fashion statement in the 1980s, particularly after stars like Michael Jordan launched their own lines.
  • Many hip-hop artists adopted sneakers as part of their iconic styles, leading to the sneaker culture that thrives today.

Science

  • Modern sneakers often incorporate advanced materials that enhance breathability and support, improving athletic performance.
  • The development of cushioning technology in sneakers helps reduce impact on joints during high-intensity activities.

History of Manufacturing

  • The first mass-produced sneakers were made by the U.S. company Keds in 1916, which created canvas tennis shoes.
  • Adidas and Nike revolutionized the sneaker industry in the late 20th century by emphasizing style and performance for athletes.

Psychology of Comfort

  • Wearing sneakers can positively influence mood by providing physical comfort and the freedom to move with ease.
  • Studies have shown that people often feel more casual and relaxed wearing sneakers compared to formal shoes.

Origin of 'sneakers'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'sneakers' originated in the late 19th century, referring to shoes that allowed people to sneak around quietly.
  • Before being called 'sneakers', these shoes were known as 'tennis shoes' in the early 1900s, designed for playing tennis.

The term 'sneakers' originated in the late 1800s in the United States, derived from the action of walking or running quietly, thus 'sneaking'. Initially, sneakers were designed for sports and athletic activities, but over time they became popular as everyday casual footwear. Today, sneakers are a staple in fashion and culture, embraced by people of all ages.

See also: sneak, sneakily, sneakiness, sneaking, sneaky.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,813, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.