Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Encumbrance \En*cum"brance\, n. [Cf. OF. encombrance. Cf.
   {Incumbrance}.]
   1. That which encumbers; a burden which impedes action, or
      renders it difficult and laborious; a clog; an impediment.
      See {Incumbrance}.

   2. (Law) Same as {Incumbrance}.

   Syn: Burden; clog; impediment; check; hindrance.

Source : WordNet®

encumbrance
     n 1: an onerous or difficult concern; "the burden of
          responsibility"; "that's a load off my mind" [syn: {burden},
           {load}, {incumbrance}, {onus}]
     2: a charge against property (as a lien or mortgage) [syn: {incumbrance}]
     3: any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome [syn: {hindrance},
         {hitch}, {preventive}, {preventative}, {incumbrance}, {interference}]