Meaning & Definition of word "Burden"
to
Burden
/ˈbɜːrdən/
noun:
- 1. A load, typically a heavy one.
- Example: The burden of the backpack made it difficult for her to climb the hill.
- 2. A duty or responsibility that causes worry or hardship.
- Example: He felt the burden of caring for his elderly parents weigh heavily on him.
- 3. Something that is emotionally or mentally taxing.
- Example: She carried the burden of guilt for many years after the accident.
verb:
- 1. To load with a heavy weight or to cause to be laden.
- Example: They burdened the donkey with too much cargo.
- 2. To impose a duty, responsibility, or hardship on someone.
- Example: Don't burden her with unnecessary tasks while she is recovering.
Etymology
Middle English burthen, from Old English byrðen; akin to Old High German burdina.
Common Phrases and Expressions
carry the burden:
to bear a heavy responsibility.
bear the burden:
to endure a difficult situation.
lighten the burden:
to make something less difficult or heavy.
Related Words
encumber:
to restrict or burden someone or something.
onus:
a burden or duty.
Slang Meanings of burden
Meaning: A hassle or source of irritation.
Example Sentence: Dealing with his paperwork is such a burden.
Meaning: A negative emotional state due to responsibilities.
Example Sentence: After that meeting, I just felt the burden of expectations.