Encumbrance

n. 1. That which impedes action, or renders it difficult and laborious; clog; impediment. See INCUMBRANCE.

Strip from the branching Alps their piny load, The huge encumbrance of horrific wood. Thomson.

2Sense 2. (Law.) Every right to, or interest in, an estate to the diminution of its value, but not impeding the passing of the fee by a conveyance, as a mortgage, a lien for taxes, a judgment, a right of way, &c. Rawle.

n. [Written also encumbrance.] [O. Fr. encombrance. See supra.]

1Sense 1. A burdensome and troublesome load; any thing that impedes motion or action, or renders it difficult or laborious; clog; impediment; embarrassment.

2Sense 2. (Law.) A burden or charge upon property; a legal claim or lien upon an estate.