Definition of hamper

• n. - A large basket, usually with a cover, used for the packing and carrying of articles; as, a hamper of wine; a clothes hamper; an oyster hamper, which contains two bushels.
• v. t. - To put in a hamper.
• v. t. - To put a hamper or fetter on; to shackle; to insnare; to inveigle; hence, to impede in motion or progress; to embarrass; to encumber.
• n. - A shackle; a fetter; anything which impedes.
• n. - Articles ordinarily indispensable, but in the way at certain times.