EnglishMain Dictionary
encumber sth
Universal Words
(with sth) (written)
1 to make it difficult for sb to do sth or for sth to happen:
The police operation was encumbered by crowds of reporters. * The business is encumbered with debt.
2 to be large and/or heavy and make it difficult for sb to move:
The frogmen were encumbered by their diving equipment.
