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.
While sneakers work fine, boots are a better alternative, as they’re often designed with weatherproof materials, anti-slip outsoles, and padded insoles for all-day comfort. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2025 Michael Jordan’s eighth signature Air Jordan sneaker will reportedly receive a new colorway inspired by one of his most memorable on-court moments in his fourth Air Jordan model. Riley Jones, Footwear News, 27 Sep. 2025 Holmes finished the look with a simple necklace, oversized sunglasses, and white sneakers. Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 27 Sep. 2025 For me, the New Balance 530 Sneakers have become more than just sneakers. Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 27 Sep. 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 2 Oct. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!