Hamper Meaning in Different Parts of the World

Lost of hampers in a store.

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The word “hamper” can have different meanings for different people in different languages. How confusing can it be to ‘define hamper’? British people might think of a hamper as a container to take on a picnic. Americans would call this a picnic basket. This is only the beginning of the differing definitions between Britain and the U.S. Let’s take a look at some of the different meanings of “hamper,” and how these differ between American and British English. 

Hamper Meaning

As many hampers as there are meanings that define hamper in this picture. (CC) Hey Paul

The word “hamper” can have at least two different meanings. The first meaning has to do with something being an obstacle or an impediment. It can also mean to restrain or interfere, encumber. The second meaning, however, is quite different than the first meaning of “hamper.” This first meaning . . . → Read More: Hamper Meaning in Different Parts of the World

Cornucopia Baskets

Cornucopia Basket Image

Most people are familiar with the beautiful cornucopia basket arrangements typically as Thanksgiving Day decorations on a food laden table.  Did you know cornucopias actually have a long history—dating all the way back to ancient times?  Cornucopias have been depicted in ancient art and used for decorations for centuries.  They have a very interesting story.

History of the Cornucopia

Cornucopia Basket Image, obtained via Wikipedia, public domain.

The cornucopia, also known as the “horn of plenty,” comes from ancient Greek mythology.  The story goes like this, the infant Zeus (the god of sky and thunder in Greek mythology) was nursed by a goat and a nymph, both named Amalthea.  Amalthea, the goat, fed Zeus on her milk to keep him alive.  One day Zeus accidentally broke off her horn when they were playing.  Feeling very badly about this, and Zeus returned the horn to Amalthea, . . . → Read More: Cornucopia Baskets