encumbrance Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun an onerous or difficult concern
load; incumbrance; onus; burden.
- the burden of responsibility
- that's a load off my mind
noun a charge against property (as a lien or mortgage)
incumbrance.
noun any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome
incumbrance; preventative; interference; hitch; hindrance; preventive; hinderance.

Cf. OF. encombrance. Cf. Incumbrance.

That which encumbers; a burden which impedes action, or renders it difficult and laborious; a clog; an impediment. See Incumbrance.
(Law) Same as Incumbrance. Syn. -- Burden; clog; impediment; check; hindrance.