encumber

One entry found for encumber.

Main Entry: en·cum·ber
Pronunciation: in-'k&m-b&r
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): -cum·bered; en·cum·ber·ing /-b(&-)ri[ng]/
Etymology: Middle English encombren, from Anglo-French encumbrer, from en- + Middle French combre dam, weir
1 : WEIGH DOWN, BURDEN <tourists encumbered by heavy luggage>
2 : to impede or hamper the function or activity of : HINDER <negotiations encumbered by a lack of trust>
3 : to burden with a legal claim (as a mortgage) <encumber an estate>