encumbrance meaning and definition

ENCUMBRANCE noun

Definition of encumbrance (noun)

1. an onerous or difficult concern
   • "the burden of responsibility"; "that's a load off my mind"
   • synonyms: burden, incumbrance, load, onus
2. a charge against property (as a lien or mortgage)
   • synonyms: incumbrance
3. any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome
   • synonyms: hinderance, hindrance, hitch, incumbrance, interference, preventative, preventive