verb
- to weigh down, burden, or impede the function or activity of
- to burden with debt or legal obligations
Usage: legal; financial
Examples
- Heavy equipment encumbers the rescue team’s progress through the forest.
- The thick winter coat encumbers her movement during the dance performance.
- Excessive regulations encumber small businesses trying to expand.
- The mortgage encumbers the property until it’s fully paid off.
- His injured leg encumbers his ability to run quickly.
- Too many responsibilities encumber the new manager’s effectiveness.