Encumbered: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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