1. burdened or weighed down by something that restricts movement or progress
2. having debts or legal claims against property
Usage: legal; finance

Examples

• The hiker was encumbered by a heavy backpack.
• She felt encumbered by too many responsibilities at work.
• The property was encumbered with several liens.
• He moved slowly, encumbered by his winter coat and boots.
• The company was encumbered with debt from previous acquisitions.
• The rescue team was encumbered by difficult terrain.
• The estate was encumbered by various legal claims.