hamper

verb/noun

To hinder or impede movement or progress; a large basket with a lid, especially for laundry.

Common - Frequently used in everyday language

Etymology

From Middle English hamperen "to surround, confine." The basket sense comes from Old French hanapier "case for goblets."

Examples in Use

1.
"Bad weather hampered rescue efforts."
2.
"Bureaucracy can hamper innovation."
3.
"She placed the dirty clothes in the hamper."

Related Vocabulary

Synonyms

hinderimpedeobstructrestrictencumber

Related Words

thwarthandicapburdenshackle

Fun Fact

The verb "hamper" (hinder) and the noun "hamper" (basket) have different origins but merged in English. The verb suggests confinement; the noun was a specific kind of container.

Word Game Tips

Letters: 6 letters (H, A, M, P, E, R)

Scrabble Value: 13 points

Tip: The letter pattern in "HAMPER" appears in many related words.

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