Encumbrance

Alternative forms

• incumbrance

Origin

From Old French encombrance, from encombrer.

Full definition of encumbrance

Noun

1. Something that encumbers; a burden that must be carried.
• Grey Riders|8Some consideration was necessary to decide whether or not to leave his rifle there. On the return, carrying the girl and a pack, it would be added encumbrance; and after debating the matter he left the rifle leaning against the bench. ...
  
2. (legal) an interest, right, burden, or liability attached to a title of land, such as a lien or mortgage.