hamper
Pronunciation: verb. Synonyms: inhibit, curb, foil
verb
Definition of hamper
obstruct or hinder progress
Synonyms for hamper
hamper in a Sentence
- The storm hampered our travel plans.
Why hamper Matters for GRE & SAT
"hamper" is a verb that means "obstruct or hinder progress" closely related to words like "inhibit", "curb", "foil". As a word starting with H, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.
On the GRE, understanding "hamper" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "hamper" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.
Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (verb). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "hamper" into long-term memory.
How to Remember hamper
One effective way to remember "hamper" (verb) is to group it with similar words you already know: "inhibit" and "curb" and "foil". When you encounter "hamper" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "obstruct or hinder progress".
Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "hamper" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.
More Vocabulary Words Starting with H
- habitat — The natural home or environment of an animal or plant
- hackneyed — lacking creativity; derivative and overused
- hamper — To hinder or impede the movement or progress of
- haphazard — lacking clear planning, order, or direction
- hapless — unlucky or unfortunate
- harangue — a long angry rant
- harbinger — a person or thing that foreshadows or foretells the coming of someone or somethi
- harrowing — causing pain or distress
- haughty — exhibiting arrogant and condescending pride
- headstrong — determined to have one's own way; stubborn