The heavy backpack was an encumbrance during the long hike.
A claim or lien on property, such as a mortgage. The house was difficult to sell because it had an encumbrance on it.
A dependent person, especially a child, who is regarded as a burden. He considered his younger siblings an encumbrance when he wanted to travel.
The state of being encumbered; hindrance or obstruction in general. The encumbrance of excessive bureaucracy hampered the new venture.