Definition of: encumber

(in·kum′bər) v.t.
1. To obstruct or hinder in action or movement, as with a burden; impede.
2. To obstruct or make hard to use; block: The decks were encumbered with fallen spars.
3. To weigh down or burden with a duty, financial obligations, mortgages, etc. Also spelled incumber. See synonyms under HINDER¹. [<OF encombrer <LL incombrare <in- in + combrus an obstacle]