hamper 1 of 2

hamper

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb hamper contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of hamper are clog, fetter, manacle, shackle, and trammel. While all these words mean "to hinder or impede in moving, progressing, or acting," hamper may imply the effect of any impeding or restraining influence.

hampered the investigation by refusing to cooperate

When is it sensible to use clog instead of hamper?

The meanings of clog and hamper largely overlap; however, clog usually implies a slowing by something extraneous or encumbering.

a court system clogged by frivolous suits

In what contexts can fetter take the place of hamper?

The synonyms fetter and hamper are sometimes interchangeable, but fetter suggests a restraining so severe that freedom to move or progress is almost lost.

a nation fettered by an antiquated class system

How is shackle related to other words for hamper?

Both shackle and manacle are stronger than fetter and suggest total loss of freedom.

a mind shackled by stubborn prejudice
a people manacled by tyranny

When could trammel be used to replace hamper?

While in some cases nearly identical to hamper, trammel suggests entangling by or confining within a net.

rules that trammel the artist's creativity

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of hamper
Verb
Inter proved more clinical on the night, landing two goals from ten shots on target, but Die Roten were unlucky not to score multiple goals despite the array of injuries hampering the squad. David Ferrini, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025 Trump’s first term moves to hamper trade—small by today’s standards but big at the time—created an opening for the E.U. Justin Worland, Time, 11 Apr. 2025
Noun
Wayfair Basics Busey Combo Laundry Center Keep laundry sorted and ready to wash with this functional hamper that’s 39 percent off. Clint Davis, People.com, 10 Mar. 2025 All hail a double laundry hamper with enough room for multiple loads. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 4 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hamper
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hamper
Verb
  • Leaders worldwide are promoting minimal AI regulation to drive innovation and avoid hindering growth.
    Art Gilliland, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Being smart with money now, as well as brand building, is crucial to making sure your on-the-field duties are not hindered.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 24 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Against a basket of currencies, the dollar slid as low as 97.923 =USD on Monday, its lowest since March 2022.
    Hannah Lang and Rae Wee, USA Today, 22 Apr. 2025
  • The basket put the Thunder ahead 55-22 with 6:23 remaining.
    Darnell Mayberry, New York Times, 21 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Williams’ Carlos Sainz initially qualified 12th but was handed a three-place grid penalty for impeding Hamilton, causing a shakeup in the order of those who were knocked out in Q2.
    Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 5 Apr. 2025
  • Maintaining a vigorous, healthy lawn is a good way to impede weed establishment and problematic perennials like dandelions.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 5 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Fill the bag with equal parts warm water and white vinegar.
    Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 19 Apr. 2025
  • However, he was chased back to the second base bag.
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 19 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Steer clear of puddles - Driving into puddles or low areas of rainwater can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control. Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
    STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Apr. 2025
  • Burroughs was fired from the department and charged with making a false police report, obstructing justice, breaking and entering a motor vehicle and possession of heroin, marijuana and methamphetamine.
    Julia Coin, Charlotte Observer, 18 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Later that day, Ellie gets ready for the barn dance by using her pocket knife — sanitized with alcohol first, thankfully — to slice up the bite on her stomach.
    Sara Netzley, EW.com, 14 Apr. 2025
  • It’s also equipped with two wine glass holders, two cup holders and side pockets.
    Christopher Murray, FOXNews.com, 14 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • O’Neil had shown a more ruthless streak in dealing with Lemina, stripping the midfielder of the captaincy after those embarrassing post-match scenes at West Ham.
    Steve Madeley, New York Times, 21 Apr. 2025
  • Punk proceeded to beatdown and embarrass McIntyre, leading to Priest cashing in his Money in the Bank contract and winning the title from McIntyre.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 15 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • His 13 1/2 tackles for loss and 4 1/2 sacks topped the Bruins, and Oluwafemi was voted the team’s most outstanding defensive lineman.
    Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 20 Apr. 2025
  • Ole Miss’ Walter Nolen — Nolen, who produced 114 tackles (25 for loss), 11.5 sacks, one forced fumble and three fumbles recovered in his three collegiate seasons, has the ideal blend of athleticism and power.
    Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Hamper.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hamper. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

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