hamper

1
[ ham-per ]
/ ˈhæm pər /

verb (used with object)

to hold back; hinder; impede: A steady rain hampered the progress of the work.
to interfere with; curtail: The dancers' movements were hampered by their elaborate costumes.

noun

Nautical. gear that, although necessary to the operations of a vessel, is sometimes in the way.

Origin of hamper

1
1300–50; Middle English hampren; akin to Old English hamm “enclosure,” hemm hem1

synonym study for hamper

1. See prevent.

OTHER WORDS FROM hamper

Definition for hamper (2 of 2)

hamper 2
[ ham-per ]
/ ˈhæm pər /

noun

a large basket or wickerwork receptacle, usually with a cover: picnic hamper; clothes hamper.
British. such a basket together with its contents, especially food.

Origin of hamper

2
1350–1400; Middle English hampere, variant of hanypere hanaper

Example sentences from the Web for hamper

British Dictionary definitions for hamper (1 of 2)

hamper 1
/ (ˈhæmpə) /

verb

(tr) to prevent the progress or free movement of

noun

nautical gear aboard a vessel that, though essential, is often in the way

Derived forms of hamper

hamperedness, noun hamperer, noun

Word Origin for hamper

C14: of obscure origin; perhaps related to Old English hamm enclosure, hemm hem 1

British Dictionary definitions for hamper (2 of 2)

hamper 2
/ (ˈhæmpə) /

noun

a large basket, usually with a cover
British such a basket and its contents, usually food
US a laundry basket

Word Origin for hamper

C14: variant of hanaper