top-hamper

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   nautical: masts, spars, rigging, and other gear carried high above a ship's deck, especially when regarded as excess upper weight

   The captain reduced the top-hamper before the vessel entered the gale.

A nautical compound of top and hamper. Hamper once referred not only to a basket but also to encumbering gear or impedimenta; top-hamper therefore named equipment carried high in a ship, where unnecessary weight could impair stability.

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