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.

Hamper \Ham"per\, n. [Contr. fr. hanaper.]
   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.

Hamper \Ham"per\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Hampered}; p. pr. & vb.
   n. {Hampering}.]
   To put in a hamper.

Hamper \Ham"per\, v. t. [OE. hamperen, hampren, prob. of the
   same origin as E. hamble.]
   To put a hamper or fetter on; to shackle; to insnare; to
   inveigle; hence, to impede in motion or progress; to
   embarrass; to encumber. ``Hampered nerves.'' --Blackmore.

         A lion hampered in a net.                --L'Estrange.

         They hamper and entangle our souls.      --Tillotson.

Source : WordNet®

hamper
     n 1: a restraint that confines or restricts freedom (especially
          something used to tie down or restrain a prisoner) [syn:
           {shackle}, {bond}, {trammel}, {trammels}]
     2: a basket usually with a cover
     v 1: prevent the progress or free movement of; "He was hampered
          in his efforts by the bad weather"; "the imperilist
          nation wanted to strangle the free trade between the two
          small countries" [syn: {halter}, {cramp}, {strangle}]
     2: put at a disadvantage; "The brace I have to wear is
        hindering my movements" [syn: {handicap}, {hinder}]