Cumbersome
/ˈkʌmbərsəm/
Definitions
2 meaningsDifficult to handle or manage because of size, weight, or complexity.
/ˈkʌmbərsəm/
Difficult to handle or use because of size or weight.
The old computer was cumbersome and slow.
💡 Simply: Imagine trying to carry a giant box full of toys all by yourself. It's hard to move around, right? That's what 'cumbersome' means—difficult to handle or use because it's too big, heavy, or complicated. Like a really long and twisty set of instructions!
👶 For kids: Something that is hard to carry or move because it is big or heavy.
More Examples
The paperwork was cumbersome and time-consuming.
The procedure for getting a permit was cumbersome.
How It's Used
"The large suitcase was cumbersome to carry through the airport."
"The old software was cumbersome and difficult to navigate."
"The lengthy approval process was cumbersome and slowed down productivity."
Involving many steps or procedures; difficult or inefficient.
/ˈkʌmbərsəm/
Slow or complicated and therefore inefficient.
The registration process was cumbersome.
💡 Simply: Imagine a long, winding road with lots of bumps and detours to get to your destination. It's not the fastest or easiest way, right? That's what 'cumbersome' means when something is slow or difficult to deal with because it has too many steps.
👶 For kids: Something that takes a long time or is hard to do because it has too many steps or is not simple.
More Examples
The new tax law had a cumbersome reporting system.
The committee decided to eliminate the cumbersome process of submitting papers by mail.
How It's Used
"The legal process was cumbersome and caused delays in the case."
"The new system was cumbersome, requiring multiple steps to complete a simple task."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
From Middle English *cummersom*, from *cumbre* (obstacle) + *-som* (suffix forming adjectives). Related to 'encumber'.
The word has been used since the 16th century to describe things difficult to handle.
Memory tip
Imagine a cumbersome, oversized backpack filled with rocks - difficult and annoying to carry.
Word Origin
"obstacle or burden"