Hamper has 8 different meanings across 2 categories:
Noun
· Verb
Noun
1
a restraint that confines or restricts freedom (especially something used to tie down or restrain a prisoner)
"The guards quickly removed the heavy iron hamper from his wrists before leading him away."
2
a basket usually with a cover
"She placed her knitting supplies inside the wicker hamper before tucking it under the armchair."
3
A large basket, usually with a cover, used for the packing and carrying of articles or small animals
"The heavy rain began to hamper our progress, forcing us to slow down and wait for the path to clear."
4
A shackle; a fetter; anything which impedes.
Verb
1
prevent the progress or free movement of
"He was hampered in his efforts by the bad weather"
"the imperialist nation wanted to strangle the free trade between the two small countries"
2
put at a disadvantage
"The brace I have to wear is hindering my movements"
3
To put into a hamper.
"His constant second-guessing effectively hampers my ability to make quick decisions."
4
To put a hamper or fetter on; to shackle
Example Sentences
"He was hampered in his efforts by the bad weather"
verb
"the imperialist nation wanted to strangle the free trade between the two small countries"
verb
"The brace I have to wear is hindering my movements"
verb
Related Terms
Show all 23 terms ↓
Broader Terms (hypernyms)
Narrower Terms (hyponyms)
Origin
The word hamper comes from the Old French hanapier, which originally meant a case for holding a large goblet or cup. This term traces its roots back to Frankish and Proto-Germanic words for a cup or bowl.