to hold back; hinder; impede

A steady rain hampered the progress of the work.

to interfere with; curtail

The dancers' movements were hampered by their elaborate costumes.

Nautical . gear that, although necessary to the operations of a vessel, is sometimes in the way.

verb

aid , allow , assist , encourage , expedite , help , permit , promote

noun

bassinet , carton , crate , creel , laundry basket , pannier , barricade , barrier , block , blockage , clog , hindrance , hurdle , impediment , obstacle , obstruction , snag , stop , traverse , wall

verb

baffle , balk , bar , bind , block , check , clog , cramp , cramp one’s style , cumber , curb , drag one’s feet , embarrass , encumber , entangle , fetter , foil , frustrate , get in the way , hamstring * , handicap , hang up * , hinder , hobble , hog-tie , hold up * , inconvenience , inhibit , interfere with , leash , obstruct , prevent , restrain , retard , shackle , slow down , stymie , thwart , tie , tie one’s hands , tie up , trammel , chain , hamstring , handcuff , manacle , basket , confine , container , crate , halter , impede , load , pannier , restrict , slow