I. ˈkəm-bər transitive verb
( cum·bered ; cum·ber·ing -b(ə-)riŋ)
Etymology: Middle English combren, short for acombren, from Anglo-French acumbrer, encumbrer — more at encumber
Date: 14th century
1. archaic : trouble , harass
2.
a. : to hinder or encumber by being in the way
cumber ed with heavy clothing
b. : to clutter up
rocks cumber ing the yard
II. noun
Date: 14th century
: something that cumbers ; especially : hindrance