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Encumbered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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encumbered

[ɪnˈkʌmbəd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in finance

Restrict or impede (someone or something) in such a way that free action or movement is difficult.

Synonyms

hamper, hinder, restrict.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
encumbered

Often used in legal or financial contexts to describe something burdened by debt or other obligations. Can also imply being physically or emotionally burdened.

  • The property is heavily encumbered with mortgage debt.
  • She felt encumbered by the expectations of her family.
hinder

Used to describe something that causes delay or obstruction, preventing progress or completion of activities. Often has a slightly negative connotation.

  • The heavy traffic will hinder our arrival at the airport.
  • Technical glitches hindered the project launch.
restrict

Used when talking about limitations imposed on actions, movement, or access. It often implies a limitation that is specific and deliberate.

  • The new law will restrict access to certain websites.
  • His doctor advised him to restrict his intake of sugar.
hamper

Used when talking about making progress slower or more difficult. It often implies interference with movement or action.

  • Bad weather will hamper the rescue efforts.
  • His lack of motivation will hamper his chances of success.

Examples of usage

  • the company is encumbered by debt
  • he felt encumbered by his heavy backpack
Context #2 | Verb

in legal terms

To burden or weigh down; to overload.

Synonyms

burden, overload, weigh down.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
encumbered

Used when describing someone or something being hindered or restricted by a heavy load or an obligation.

  • She felt encumbered by the numerous responsibilities of her job
  • The travelers were encumbered by their heavy backpacks
burden

Used to describe someone having a heavy load to carry, either literally or figuratively, often causing stress or difficulty.

  • He felt burdened with the responsibility of taking care of his family
  • The financial issues were a heavy burden on their minds
weigh down

Used when describing being heavily affected by a physical or emotional load, causing difficulty in movement or progress.

  • The boat was weighed down by the excessive cargo
  • His worries about the future weighed him down
overload

Used to describe exceeding a limit or capacity, often resulting in dysfunction or breakdown, can refer to both physical and mental contexts.

  • The circuit overloaded because of the excessive electrical demand
  • Students often feel overloaded with homework and exams

Examples of usage

  • She was encumbered with heavy responsibilities.
  • The property was encumbered by a mortgage.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, being encumbered often refers to property that has debts or claims against it, limiting its free use.
  • Other legal encumbrances can include easements that restrict how land can be developed or accessed.
  • The concept of encumbrance can greatly affect property values and marketability.

Psychological Impact

  • Feeling encumbered can manifest as stress or anxiety, stemming from too many responsibilities or expectations.
  • Psychologists note that simplifying one's life can alleviate feelings of being encumbered and improve mental health.
  • People often seek to 'unencumber' themselves by decluttering their physical spaces or reducing their commitments.

Historical Usage

  • Throughout history, armies were often encumbered by heavy equipment and supplies, limiting their mobility in battle.
  • In literature, characters who are encumbered often face personal struggles, mirroring the burdens they carry, both literally and metaphorically.
  • Political movements have also been described as encumbered, where outdated laws or structures prevent progress.

Daily Life

  • People can feel encumbered when they have too many tasks or commitments on their to-do list.
  • In modern life, being encumbered can refer to technology, where information overload can hinder decision-making.
  • Whether it's work, family duties, or financial obligations, many feel encumbered in a fast-paced society.

Origin of 'encumbered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old French 'encumber', which means 'to block or hinder'.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Latin 'incumbere', meaning 'to lie upon' or 'to weigh down'.
  • The term has been used in English since the late 15th century, indicating a sense of heaviness or burden.

The word 'encumbered' originated from the Old French word 'encombrer', which meant 'to block or obstruct'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the idea of burdening or overloading. The word has been used in English since the 14th century and has been a common term in legal and financial contexts.

See also: encumber, encumbrance.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,703, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.