Encumbrance
A burden or impediment that weighs down progress; in law, a claim or restriction on a property that affects its transfer.
nounEncumbrance
A burden or impediment that weighs down progress; in law, a claim or restriction on a property that affects its transfer.
nounImagine This
Picture yourself climbing a staircase with a heavy backpack full of rocks. Each step is slower because the encumbrance on your back weighs you down. In a legal scenario, imagine a house with a stubborn chain attached to its title—an encumbrance that prevents a clean sale until debts are resolved.
Sounds Like
en-KUHM-bruhns
Looks Like
burden, hindrance; resembles encumber (verb)
Remember This
Encumbrance comes from a word meaning to burden or weigh down; it can refer to a general obstacle as well as a formal legal claim on property.
Other Forms
Connect With
burden, hindrance, obstacle, liability, lien, property restriction
Note
Be careful not to confuse encumbrance with a simple obstacle or nuisance. In law, an encumbrance is a binding claim (like a lien or mortgage) that limits how property can be used or transferred.