encumbered
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈkʌmbəd/
KK: /ɪnˈkʌmbərd/
adjective
Definition
Having a burden or load that makes movement or progress difficult.
Example
The hiker felt encumbered by the heavy backpack as he climbed the mountain.
Conversation
I feel so encumbered with all this homework to do.
I know what you mean; it can be overwhelming sometimes.
Yeah, I just want to finish it and relax a bit.
You should take breaks! It helps when you feel encumbered.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
burdened
hampered
hindered
Antonyms
unencumbered
free
light
verb
Definition
To be burdened or weighed down by something, making it difficult to move or act freely.
Example
She felt encumbered by her heavy backpack during the hike.
Tense Forms
Past: encumbered
Past Participle: encumbered
Conversation
I felt really encumbered with all the extra work last week.
Yeah, I noticed you seemed a bit stressed out.
It was tough to keep up with everything while feeling so encumbered.
Root Explanation
Encumbered → It is formed from "en-" (meaning to cause to be in) and "cumber" (from Old French *combrer*, meaning to hinder or obstruct) and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a past participle). The word "encumbered" means to be hindered or burdened by something.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'caused to be in' a state of 'hindrance' — that's why encumbered means to be burdened or obstructed.
Visually Confused Words
unencumbered
uncumbered
unencumberedly
unincumbered
unnumbered
unencumber
uncambered