encumber

transitive-verb
UK: /ɪnˈkʌmbə/
US: /ɪnˈkʌmbər/

  1. To make it difficult for someone to do something or for something to happen.

    1. The muddy boots encumber his movements.
    2. The heavy backpack will encumber your hike, so pack lightly to avoid discomfort.

  2. To burden someone or something in a way that makes free action or movement difficult.

    1. Don't encumber yourself with too much luggage.
    2. Regulations may encumber businesses, hindering their ability to compete effectively.

Synonyms

burden hinder obstruct restrict hamper constrain
encumber verb

  1. To place a burden or obstacle on something.

    1. Debts can encumber a property's value.
    2. Unnecessary details can encumber a presentation, making it harder to understand.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "encumber" in English means: To make it difficult for someone to do something or for something to happen., To burden someone or something in a way that makes free action or movement difficult..

The phonetic transcription of "encumber" is /ɪnˈkʌmbə/ in British English and /ɪnˈkʌmbər/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "encumber": burden, hinder, obstruct, restrict, hamper, constrain.

Example usage of "encumber": "The muddy boots encumber his movements.". More examples on the page.