What does cumbersome mean Meaning and Definition
What does cumbersome mean
Pronunciation
/ˈkʌmbərˌsʊm/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Making something difficult to use or move because it is very big, heavy, or complicated. Difficult to handle or manage because of being large or awkward.
Examples
- The cumbersome suitcase made it hard to navigate the airport.
- The new software is cumbersome to use, with too many unnecessary features.
Synonyms
- Clumsy
- Awkward
- Unwieldy
Antonyms
- Agile
- Convenient
- Effortless
Etymology
The word “cumbersome” originated in the 16th century, from the Old English “cumber” meaning “hindrance” or “obstacle”. The suffix “-some” was added to form the adjective.
Usage Notes
Cumbersome is often used to describe objects or situations that are physically awkward or difficult to manage. It can also be used to describe processes or systems that are unnecessarily complicated or bureaucratic.
Cultural References
The word “cumbersome” has appeared in various forms of media, including literature, music, and film. For example, in the novel “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, the character of Mr. Collins is described as being “cumbersome” in his speech and behavior.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “A cumbersome load” refers to a heavy or awkward burden.
- “A cumbersome task” refers to a difficult or arduous task.
Related Words or Phrases
- Clumsy
- Awkward
- Inconvenient
Collocations
- Cumbersome luggage
- Cumbersome equipment
- Cumbersome bureaucracy
Frequency of Use
Cumbersome is a fairly common word in modern English, with a frequency of use of around 0.5 per 10,000 words.
Common Misspellings
- Cumbersome
- Cumbersum
- Kumbersome
Additional Information
The word “cumbersome” is often used in a variety of contexts, including everyday conversation, formal writing, and technical communication. It is a versatile word that can be used to describe a range of scenarios, from physical obstacles to bureaucratic red tape.
In addition to its literal meaning, “cumbersome” can also be used figuratively to describe emotions or thoughts that are burdensome or oppressive. For example, someone might describe a heavy heart as feeling “cumbersome” during a difficult time.
Overall, “cumbersome” is a useful word to have in your vocabulary, as it can help you to describe and navigate a range of challenges and obstacles in your daily life.