hamper
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈhæmpər/
KK: /ˈhæmpər/
noun
Definition
A large basket that often has a lid, used for carrying or storing items like food or laundry.
Example
She placed the dirty clothes in the hamper before washing them.
Conversation
Hey, do you know where I put my laundry hamper?
I think it's in the laundry room, next to the washing machine.
Oh right, I forgot I moved it there last week.
No worries! Just make sure to empty it before it overflows.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
basket
container
receptacle
Antonyms
empty
void
space
transitive verb
Definition
To make it difficult for someone to do something or for something to happen.
Example
The heavy rain will hamper our plans for a picnic.
Tense Forms
Past: hampered
Past Participle: hampered
Conversation
I feel like the rain might hamper our plans for the picnic today.
Yeah, I was just thinking the same thing. It might be better to stay indoors.
True, but I really wanted to enjoy the fresh air outside.
Root Explanation
Hamper originates from Old French 'hamper' (meaning to hinder or impede). The word refers to something that obstructs or restricts movement or progress.
Memory Tip
Think of something that 'hinders' or 'impedes' your progress — that's why a hamper is something that can get in the way.
Visually Confused Words
champer
amper
unhamper
enhamper
vamper
tamper
shaper
shamer