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: something that impedes or is burdensome [syn: {hindrance}, {hitch},

{preventive}, {preventative}, {incumbrance}, {interference}]