encumbrance

noun
UK: /ɪnˈkʌmbrəns/
US: /ɪnˈkʌmbrəns/

  1. Something that prevents action or freedom.

    1. The heavy backpack was an encumbrance on the hike.
    2. Financial debt can be a significant encumbrance to personal freedom and future plans.

  2. A mortgage or other claim on property or assets.

    1. The property has an encumbrance on it.
    2. Before buying the land, check for any encumbrance such as unpaid taxes or liens.

  3. A burden or impediment.

    1. His lack of experience was an encumbrance to his success.
    2. Outdated regulations can become an encumbrance hindering innovation and economic growth.

Synonyms

burden hindrance obstacle impediment liability mortgage lien claim

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "encumbrance" in English means: Something that prevents action or freedom., A mortgage or other claim on property or assets., A burden or impediment..

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

Synonyms for "encumbrance": burden, hindrance, obstacle, impediment, liability, mortgage, lien, claim.

Example usage of "encumbrance": "The heavy backpack was an encumbrance on the hike.". More examples on the page.