top hamper

2 definitions found

top hamper - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Hamper \Ham"per\, n. [See Hamper to shackle.]
     1. A shackle; a fetter; anything which impedes. --W. Browne.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. (Naut.) Articles ordinarily indispensable, but in the way
        at certain times. --Ham. Nav. Encyc.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     Top hamper (Naut.), unnecessary spars and rigging kept
        aloft.
        [1913 Webster]

  Top-hamper \Top"-ham`per\, n. (Naut.)
     The upper rigging, spars, etc., of a ship. [Written also top hamper
     .]
     [1913 Webster]
  
           All the ships of the fleet . . . were so encumbered
           with tophamper, so overweighted in proportion to their
           draught of water, that they could bear but little
           canvas, even with smooth seas and light and favorable
           winds.                                   --Motley.
     [1913 Webster]