hamper crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "hamper," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "hamper crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
HINDER: To obstruct or impede progress, often used when 'hamper' refers to delaying or preventing an action.
BASKET: A container, typically made of interwoven material, often referring to a laundry basket or a picnic basket.
THWART: To prevent someone from accomplishing something; frustrate or defeat.
7 Letters
CURTAIL: To reduce in extent or quantity; impose a restriction on.
8 Letters
OBSTRUCT: To block an opening, path, or passage; make progress difficult.
More About "hamper crossword clue"
"Hamper" is a fascinating word in crosswords because it has two primary meanings that are quite distinct, making it a common source of confusion for solvers. Firstly, as a verb, it means to impede, obstruct, or hinder progress. This interpretation often leads to answers like HINDER, THWART, or OBSTRUCT, focusing on the act of slowing something down or preventing an outcome.
Secondly, and equally common, "hamper" can refer to a noun: a large basket, often with a lid, used for various purposes such as laundry or holding food for a picnic. When the clue points to this meaning, answers like BASKET are appropriate. The key to deciphering which meaning the puzzle setter intends lies in the surrounding words of the clue, its grammatical structure, and any cross-referenced letters you might already have filled in.
Understanding these dual meanings is crucial for tackling "hamper" clues effectively. Always consider both possibilities before committing to an answer, and look for subtle hints in the clue's phrasing that lean towards either the verb (action-oriented) or noun (object-oriented) interpretation.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Part of Speech: For clues like "hamper," determine if the clue's phrasing suggests a verb (an action) or a noun (a thing). This is the most crucial step.
- Check for Synonyms: Think of common synonyms for both meanings. For the verb, consider words like impede, hinder, or frustrate. For the noun, think of container, basket, or pannier.
- Use Cross-References: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them to narrow down the possibilities. Sometimes, only one meaning will fit the given letter pattern.
- Consider the Setter's Style: Some crossword setters are known for playing on words with multiple meanings. Familiarize yourself with their tendencies to anticipate such tricks.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main meanings of "hamper" in crossword puzzles?
In crosswords, "hamper" commonly refers to two distinct concepts: as a verb, it means "to hinder, impede, or obstruct," indicating a blockage or slowing down; as a noun, it refers to a "large basket," often used for laundry or food.
How can I tell if "hamper" is a verb or a noun in a crossword clue?
Context is key. If the clue uses synonyms like "impede," "obstruct," "restrict," or suggests an specific action, it's likely a verb. If it refers to an object, such as "container," "wickerwork," "picnic holder," or implies something that holds items, it's probably the noun form.
Are there common tricks related to "hamper" clues?
Crossword setters often play on "hamper"'s dual meaning. Be aware of its verb synonyms (e.g., baffle, thwart, cripple) and noun synonyms (e.g., basket, pannier, creel). Always pay close attention to the clue's grammar and any indicators of a specific part of speech.