encumber

verb en·cum·ber \in-ˈkəm-bər\

: to make (someone or something) hold or carry something heavy

: to cause problems or difficulties for (someone or something)

en·cum·bereden·cum·ber·ing\-b(ə-)riŋ\

Full Definition of ENCUMBER

transitive verb

: weigh down, burden <tourists encumbered by heavy luggage>

: to impede or hamper the function or activity of : hinder <negotiations encumbered by a lack of trust>

: to burden with a legal claim (as a mortgage) <encumber an estate>

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Middle English encombren, from Anglo-French encumbrer, from en- + Middle French combre dam, weir

First Known Use: 14th century

Synonyms: clog, cramp, embarrass, hamper, fetter, handcuff, handicap, hinder, hobble, hog-tie, hold back, hold up, impede, inhibit, interfere (with), manacle, obstruct, shackle, short-circuit, stymie, tie up, trammel

ENCUMBER Defined for Kids

verb en·cum·ber \in-ˈkəm-bər\

en·cum·bereden·cum·ber·ing

: to weigh down : burden <Their heavy coats encumbered the children.>

: to cause problems or delays for : hinder <Bad weather encumbered the building project.>

Next Word in the Dictionary: encumberinglyPrevious Word in the Dictionary: enculturationAll Words Near: encumber

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