Disencumber
Verb
Definition: To free or release from a burden or hindrance.
Synonyms: Unburden, Relieve, Remove
Antonyms: Burden, Encumber, Weigh down
- The therapist helped him disencumber his mind of negative thoughts.
- She decided to disencumber herself from the responsibilities of her previous job.
- Think of the prefix "dis-" as a negation, meaning to remove or undo the encumbrance.
- Disencumber can be visualized as lifting a heavy load off one's shoulders.
Etymology:
The word "disencumber" is derived from the prefix "dis-" meaning "opposite" or "undo" and the word "encumber" meaning "to burden or hinder."
Historical Usage:The term has been used in English since the early 17th century, primarily in the legal and literary contexts, to describe the act of removing or freeing oneself from a burden or obstruction.
Related Idioms:
None identified
Explanation:While "disencumber" and "unencumber" are similar in meaning, "disencumber" specifically emphasizes the act of freeing or releasing oneself or someone else from a burden, while "unencumber" generally means to remove any burden or hindrance.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "disencumber" with "unencumber."
Explanation:While "disencumber" and "unencumber" are similar in meaning, "disencumber" specifically emphasizes the act of freeing or releasing oneself or someone else from a burden, while "unencumber" generally means to remove any burden or hindrance.