Meaning & use
encumbrance
Last updated
something that burdens, hinders, or restricts, such as a heavy load or a legal claim on property.
See it in a sentence
Carrying the heavy suitcase up five flights became a real encumbrance.
The lawyer confirmed the property had no outstanding encumbrances before the sale.
A note on using this word
In legal and real-estate contexts, an 'encumbrance' specifically refers to a claim, such as a mortgage or lien, against a property.
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