Definition

A heavy load or excessive weight that is difficult to carry or manage, often used in contexts like geology or archaeology to refer to layers of material above something valuable.

Example

The workers had to remove the overburden before they could access the mineral deposits below.

Conversation

I feel like the project is such an overburden for us right now.

I know what you mean; it feels like there's too much to handle at once.

Maybe we should talk to the manager about splitting the workload.

That sounds like a good idea; it might help lighten the overburden.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To place too much weight or responsibility on someone or something, making it difficult for them to manage or cope.

Example

The new regulations may overburden small businesses with excessive paperwork.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I feel like my workload is starting to overburden me lately.

Yeah, it can be tough to manage everything at once.

I just don’t want to let anyone down by not finishing my tasks.

Root Explanation

Overburden → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively or too much) and "burden" (from Old English "byrdan", meaning to carry or load). The word "overburden" means to load or carry too much, placing excessive weight or responsibility on someone or something.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'excessively' loaded ('over-') with a 'burden' — that's why overburden means to carry too much.

Visually Confused Words