Encumber vs. Incumber — Which is Correct Spelling?

To cause to have difficulty in moving or in accomplishing something; burden

To hinder or impede the action or performance of

(transitive) To load down something with a burden.

(transitive) To restrict or block something with a hindrance or impediment.

(transitive) To burden with a legal claim or other obligation.

To impede the motion or action of, as with a burden; to retard with something superfluous; to weigh down; to obstruct or embarrass; as, his movements were encumbered by his mantle; his mind is encumbered with useless learning.

To load with debts, or other legal claims; as, to encumber an estate with mortgages.

Hold back