Dictionary

tamper

intransitive verb tam·per \ˈtam-pər\

tam·peredtam·per·ing \-p(ə-)riŋ\

Definition of TAMPER

: to carry on underhand or improper negotiations (as by bribery)

a : to interfere so as to weaken or change for the worse —used with with <did not want to tamper with tradition>

b : to try foolish or dangerous experiments —used with with

c : to render something harmful or dangerous by altering its structure or composition <was charged with tampering with consumer products>

— tam·per·er \-pər-ər\ noun

— tam·per·proof \ˈtam-pər-ˌprüf\ adjective

See tamper defined for kids

probably from Middle French temprer to temper, mix, meddle — more at temper

First Known Use: 1567

TAMPER Defined for Kids

verb tam·per \ˈtam-pər\

tam·peredtam·per·ing

: to interfere or change in a secret or incorrect way <Someone was tampering with the official records.>

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