IPA

Dictionary definition of hamper

To obstruct, hinder, or impede the progress or movement of someone or something.
"Illness can seriously hamper a person's ability to work effectively."

Detailed meaning of hamper

When something is hampered, it is prevented from functioning or progressing smoothly due to obstacles or difficulties in the way. For example, bad weather can hamper travel plans by causing flight delays or road closures, while a lack of resources can hamper a business's ability to grow and expand. Similarly, a person's physical or mental condition can hamper their ability to carry out tasks or activities as they normally would. Hampering can also refer to the act of restricting or limiting someone's actions or choices, such as when a supervisor hamper's an employee's autonomy by micromanaging their work. Overall, hampering can have negative effects on productivity, efficiency, and overall success.

Example sentences of hamper

1. The inclement weather will likely hamper our plans for the outdoor event.
2. A lack of communication can often hamper team performance.
3. Economic sanctions are likely to hamper the country's growth.
4. Lack of access to proper technology can hamper students' educational progress.
5. Heavy traffic is expected to hamper the morning commute.
6. His lack of confidence continues to hamper his potential success.

History and etymology of hamper

The verb 'hamper' has an etymology that can be traced back to the Old English word 'hamorian' and the Old Norse word 'hama,' both of which meant 'to put in a bag' or 'to wrap up.' Over time, the term evolved to denote the action of placing something in a container, often with the intent of obstructing or restraining it. The word 'hamper' gained its modern sense of obstructing, hindering, or impeding the progress or movement of someone or something. The etymology of 'hamper' underscores the idea of encumbering or restricting the free movement or flow of objects or activities, which aligns with its current usage to describe obstacles or hindrances that interfere with smooth progress.

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Further usage examples of hamper

1. Increasing costs may hamper the expansion of our business.
2. A lack of resources could hamper the scientific research.
3. Political unrest could hamper tourism in the region.
4. Prejudice and stereotypes can hamper understanding and cooperation.
5. Old legacy systems can hamper a company's technological evolution.
6. Unresolved issues from the past can hamper personal growth.
7. A shortage of skilled labor can hamper construction projects.
8. Limited funding could hamper the planned improvements to the park.
9. Excessive rules and regulations can hamper entrepreneurial spirit.
10. Poor health and nutrition can hamper a child's learning ability.
11. A negative mindset can hamper one's ability to achieve goals.
12. Bad weather conditions could hamper the search and rescue mission.
13. The language barrier may hamper effective communication during the international conference.
14. Heavy traffic can hamper your daily commute and cause delays.
15. Inadequate funding can hamper the growth of small businesses.
16. The storm's strong winds can hamper outdoor activities.
17. Technical glitches can hamper the success of online meetings.
18. Bureaucratic red tape can hamper the implementation of policies.
19. A lack of clear instructions can hamper project completion.
20. Negative attitudes can hamper team collaboration and innovation.
21. Excessive regulations can hamper economic development.
22. Broken equipment can hamper production in factories.
23. A lack of focus can hamper your ability to achieve goals.
24. Poor communication can hamper relationships and cause misunderstandings.