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Encumbering: meaning, definitions and examples

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encumbering

 

[ɪnˈkʌmbərɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

burdensome situation

To encumber means to restrict or burden someone or something in a way that makes it difficult for them to function effectively. It can refer to physical burdens, such as heavy loads, as well as metaphorical ones, like obligations or restrictions that limit freedom. In legal contexts, encumbering often relates to claims against property that can hinder ownership. The term implies an unwanted weight or limitation placed on an individual or entity.

Synonyms

burden, hinder, impede, obstruct, restrict.

Examples of usage

  • The new regulations are encumbering the company's ability to expand.
  • His debts were encumbering his financial freedom.
  • The encumbered properties were difficult to sell.
  • She felt encumbered by the expectations of her family.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Middle English word 'encumben', which means to hinder or impede.
  • It traces back to the Latin word 'incumbere', meaning 'to lean on' or 'to weigh upon'.

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, encumbering often refers to property that has restrictions or claims, such as mortgages or liens, making it harder to sell.
  • Encumbrances in property law can hinder transactions and complicate ownership disputes.

Psychology

  • In psychology, being encumbered can refer to emotional baggage that impacts decision-making and well-being.
  • Research indicates that mental burdens can reduce cognitive performance, making tasks feel more difficult.

Transportation

  • In urban planning, encumbering refers to obstacles like heavy traffic or roadblocks that impede transit efficiency.
  • Designers work to minimize encumbering factors to improve safety and mobility in cities.

Environmental Science

  • In ecology, encumbering can describe how invasive species can weigh heavily on native ecosystems, disrupting balance.
  • Efforts to clear encumbering species from habitats often involve complex ecological management strategies.

Translations

Translations of the word "encumbering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 obstruindo

🇮🇳 बाधित करना

🇩🇪 belastend

🇮🇩 memberatkan

🇺🇦 обтяжуючий

🇵🇱 obciążający

🇯🇵 妨げる

🇫🇷 alourdissant

🇪🇸 cargante

🇹🇷 yükleyici

🇰🇷 부담을 주는

🇸🇦 مُثقل

🇨🇿 zatěžující

🇸🇰 zaťažujúci

🇨🇳 负担的

🇸🇮 obremenjujoč

🇮🇸 þrengjandi

🇰🇿 жүктейтін

🇬🇪 ბარგის აწევა

🇦🇿 yük gətirən

🇲🇽 cargante

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,140 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.