Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Hamper \Ham"per\, n. [See {Hamper} to shackle.]
   1. A shackle; a fetter; anything which impedes. --W. Browne.

   2. (Naut.) Articles ordinarily indispensable, but in the way
      at certain times. --Ham. Nav. Encyc.

   {Top hamper} (Naut.), unnecessary spars and rigging kept
      aloft.