n.
Pronunciation: ' ham-p ə r
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form: ham · pered ; ham · per · ing \ -p( ə -)ri ŋ \
Etymology: Middle English
Date: 14th century
1 a : to restrict the movement of by bonds or obstacles : IMPEDE b : to interfere with the operation of : DISRUPT
2 a : CURB , RESTRAIN b : to interfere with : ENCUMBER
synonyms HAMPER , TRAMMEL , CLOG , FETTER , SHACKLE , MANACLE 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>. TRAMMEL suggests entangling by or confining within a net <rules that trammel the artist's creativity>. CLOG usually implies a slowing by something extraneous or encumbering <a court system clogged by frivolous suits>. FETTER suggests a restraining so severe that freedom to move or progress is almost lost <a nation fettered by an antiquated class system>. SHACKLE and MANACLE are stronger than FETTER and suggest total loss of freedom <a mind shackled by stubborn prejudice> <a people manacled by tyranny>.