'cheerleader' originates from the English words 'cheer' and 'leader', where 'cheer' meant 'shout of encouragement' and 'leader' meant 'one who leads'.

'cheerleader' evolved from the combination of 'cheer' and 'leader' in the early 20th century, reflecting the role of leading cheers at sports events.

Initially, it meant 'one who leads cheers', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.