'Encumbrance' definitions:

Definition of 'encumbrance'

From: WordNet
noun
An onerous or difficult concern; "the burden of responsibility"; "that's a load off my mind" [syn: burden, load, encumbrance, incumbrance, onus]
noun
A charge against property (as a lien or mortgage) [syn: encumbrance, incumbrance]
noun
Any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome [syn: hindrance, hinderance, hitch, preventive, preventative, encumbrance, incumbrance, interference]

Definition of 'Encumbrance'

From: GCIDE
  • Encumbrance \En*cum"brance\, n. [Cf. OF. encombrance. Cf. Incumbrance.]
  • 1. That which encumbers; a burden which impedes action, or renders it difficult and laborious; a clog; an impediment. See Incumbrance. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Law) Same as Incumbrance.
  • Syn: Burden; clog; impediment; check; hindrance. [1913 Webster]

Definition of 'encumbrance'

From: GCIDE
  • Incumbrance \In*cum"brance\, n. [See Encumbrance.] [Written also encumbrance.] [1913 Webster]
  • 1. A burdensome and troublesome load; anything that impedes motion or action, or renders it difficult or laborious; clog; impediment; hindrance; check. --Cowper. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Law) A burden or charge upon property; a claim or lien upon an estate, which may diminish its value. [1913 Webster]