1. (

• encumbrance ,
• incumbrance

) a charge against property (as a lien or mortgage) ;

2. (

• burden ,
• load ,
• encumbrance ,
• incumbrance ,
• onus

) an onerous or difficult concern; "the burden of responsibility"; "that's a load off my mind" ;

3. (

• hindrance ,
• hinderance ,
• hitch ,
• preventive ,
• preventative ,
• encumbrance ,
• incumbrance ,
• interference

) any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome ;