encumbrance

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   Something that encumbers; a burden that must be carried.

   Some consideration was necessary to decide whether or not to leave his rifle there. On the return, carrying the girl and a pack, it would be added encumbrance[…]

2. 2
   noun

   any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome

3. 3
   noun

   an onerous or difficult concern

4. 4
   noun

   a charge against property (as a lien or mortgage)

5. 5
   noun

   Alternative spelling of incumbrance (“in law: interest attached to a title; dependent”).

6. 6
   noun

   The state or condition of being encumbered.

7. 7
   verb

   To apply an encumbrance to (property, etc.).

Etymology

From Middle English encombraunce, from Old French encombrance, from encombrer.