sneaker

noun

sneak·​er ˈsnē-kər How to pronounce sneaker (audio)
1
: one that sneaks
2
: a sports shoe with a pliable rubber sole
sneakered adjective

Examples of sneaker in a Sentence

she's such a sneaker I wouldn't trust her any farther than I could throw her
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For many young women, the stiletto’s discomfort is part of the appeal, offering proof that effort and glamor remain in an age of casual sneakers. Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 9 Nov. 2025 Dolce Vita Tricia Sneakers Dolce Vita’s Tricia sneakers are sophisticated with brown suede all over, chunky soles for additional comfort, and clean lines that feel both elevated and understated. Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 8 Nov. 2025 Along with signature sneakers belonging to Anthony Edwards, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and A’ja Wilson, Ja Morant’s third Nike model is part of a crop of new basketball shoes that are bringing new energy to the category. Riley Jones, Footwear News, 8 Nov. 2025 Kunstnernes Hus has a café, and that day it was filled with groups of hip-looking mothers and their gleeful toddlers; a few lone guys, in jeans and sneakers, tapped on laptops. Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 3 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sneaker

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sneaker was in 1598

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sneaker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sneaker. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

sneaker

noun
sneak·​er ˈsnē-kər How to pronounce sneaker (audio)
1
: one that sneaks
2
: a sports shoe (as of canvas) with a rubber sole
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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