hamper 1 of 2

hamper

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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
The company supplies household durables such as shelving units, coat hangers and laundry hampers to U.S. retail giants such as Walmart, Target and Amazon. Dylan Butts,anniek Bao, CNBC, 9 Apr. 2025 The recent House amendment focuses on states like Utah and Nevada, where some lawmakers contend that excessive federal control hampers development and local authority. Dan Cody, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025
Noun
Sleep deprivation hampers your ability to deal with stress. Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025 Tax experts have voiced concerns that the 2026 filing season could be hampered by the departure of so many tax collection workers. Arkansas Online, 13 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for hamper
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hamper
Verb
  • However, rather than hindering its movement, this feature is actually an adaptation that enhances its ability to survive in a diverse range of North American habitats.
    Smithsonian magazine, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 June 2025
  • Security and Privacy Concerns Persist Security and data privacy remain the leading concerns hindering wider LLM adoption.
    Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • The Duchess of Sussex carried a basket in the video, while Lilibet accessorized with her own handy tote: a rainbow purse.
    Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 28 June 2025
  • When regular biscuits just won't cut it, or when your basket of summer fruit is overflowing, make blueberry butter swim biscuits.
    Ann Taylor Pittman, Southern Living, 27 June 2025
Verb
  • The indictment, announced earlier this month, accuses McIver of three counts: two felonies for assaulting, resisting, or impeding federal officers—each carrying up to eight years in prison—and a misdemeanor with a maximum sentence of one year.
    Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 June 2025
  • This month she was indicted on three counts of assaulting, resisting, impeding and interfering with federal officials.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 26 June 2025
Noun
  • The Republic of Tea charges $14.50 for 36 bags of hibiscus tea in a metal tin.
    Jack Royston, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025
  • Some pretty wild things are going on over in the accessories department, where high-summer necessities like raffia bags and sleek sunglasses are up to 40% off.
    Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas 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.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2025
  • Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • What people have not always had is either the awareness or deep enough pockets, which means FIFA should reduce prices and fill these stadiums.
    The Athletic Staff, New York Times, 28 June 2025
  • The pull-on pants feature a comfy elastic waistband and functional front and back pockets.
    Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 27 June 2025
Verb
  • And best of all, no one could possibly be embarrassed by these empathetic words.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 21 June 2025
  • Mavericks 4-2 over Heat (2011): Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavs absolutely embarrassed the Heatles.
    Zach Harper, New York Times, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • Kelly started 11 games at defensive end for the Knights last season, leading the team in sacks (5.5), tackles for loss (9.5) and fumbles forced (three).
    Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 June 2025
  • Davis already looks the part of a college defensive lineman at 6 feet 4 and 270 pounds and had a productive junior season at DeSmet with 46 tackles, 9 sacks and 18 tackles for loss.
    Austin Meek, New York Times, 24 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Hamper.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hamper. Accessed 5 Jul. 2025.

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