Encumbrance: meaning, definitions and examples

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encumbrance

 

[ ɪnˈkʌmbrəns ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

legal

A burden or impediment; something that restricts or limits someone or something.

Synonyms

barrier, constraint, hindrance, obstacle

Examples of usage

  • The encumbrance of student loans can make it difficult to save money for the future.
  • The encumbrance of excessive regulations can stifle innovation in the industry.
Context #2 | Noun

finance

A claim or liability on property, such as a mortgage or a lien.

Synonyms

claim, lien, mortgage

Examples of usage

  • The house was unable to be sold due to the encumbrance of an existing mortgage.
  • Before purchasing the land, it is important to investigate any potential encumbrances.

Translations

Translations of the word "encumbrance" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ônus

🇮🇳 बोझ

🇩🇪 Belastung

🇮🇩 beban

🇺🇦 тягар

🇵🇱 obciążenie

🇯🇵 負担 (ふたん)

🇫🇷 charge

🇪🇸 carga

🇹🇷 yük

🇰🇷 부담

🇸🇦 عبء

🇨🇿 břemeno

🇸🇰 bremeno

🇨🇳 负担 (fùdān)

🇸🇮 bremenitev

🇮🇸 byrði

🇰🇿 жүк

🇬🇪 ტვირთი

🇦🇿 yük

🇲🇽 carga

Etymology

The word 'encumbrance' originated from Middle English in the late 14th century, derived from Old French 'encombrance'. It is related to the Latin word 'cumbrus' meaning 'a hindrance'. Over the centuries, 'encumbrance' has evolved to encompass both legal and financial contexts, referring to burdens, liabilities, or restrictions that impede progress or freedom.

See also: encumber, encumbered.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,665, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.