What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
basket
Example
She carried the picnic basket filled with sandwiches and drinks. [basket: noun]
Example
The children picked strawberries and put them in the basket. [basket: noun]
hamper
Example
She sorted the dirty clothes into different hampers for washing. [hamper: noun]
Example
The hamper in the bathroom is filled with towels and toiletries. [hamper: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Basket is more commonly used than hamper in everyday language. Basket is a familiar term that is widely used and understood, while hamper is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between basket and hamper?
Both basket and hamper can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, basket is generally considered more casual and informal, while hamper may be associated with a slightly more formal tone due to its specific usage in laundry or household organization.