'sneaker' originates from American English, specifically the word 'sneak,' where 'sneak' meant 'to move quietly or stealthily.'

'sneak' transformed into the term 'sneaker' in the late 19th century, referring to shoes that allowed the wearer to move quietly.

Initially, it meant 'a shoe that allows one to move quietly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a casual athletic shoe.'