Dassler

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A surname associated with the founders of a major sportswear brand that originated in Germany
2. Referring to the family behind iconic athletic footwear and apparel companies
3. A name linked to innovations in sports equipment and branding in the 20th century

Etymology: In 1924, brothers Adolf and Rudolf Dassler founded a shoe business together in Herzogenaurach, a small town in Bavaria, after their father's laundry business had run into trouble. Their partnership ended in bitter rivalry around 1948, and the town effectively split in two. Adolf, nicknamed "Adi," founded Adidas, a name built from his own nickname. Rudolf founded Ruda, which was renamed Puma that same year. The two firms became fierce competitors in the sports shoe market, and the family feud was reportedly so intense that the brothers never reconciled. Adi's company and Rudolf's company remained separate for the rest of their lives. The surname itself is a German family name, and I am not certain of its specific origin.

Synonyms: Adidas founder, Adolf Dassler, sports shoe manufacturer