(1):
(v. t.) To load with debts, or other legal claims; as, to encumber an estate with mortgages.
(2):
(v. t.) 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.