Definition of the word unencumbered

The word "unencumbered" has its origins in the 15th century. "Encumber" comes from the Old French "empescher", which means "to hinder" or "to obstruct". In the 14th century, the English language adopted "encumber" from the French, with the meaning "to load or burden something or someone". Fast forward to the 15th century, the opposite form "unencumbered" emerged. This prefix "un-" (meaning "not" or "opposite of") was added to "encumbered" to create a word that means "free from encumbrances" or "not hindered or obstructed". Over time, the word has taken on broader meanings, such as "free from responsibility or obligation" or "unhampered by anything". Today, we use "unencumbered" to describe something or someone that is unobstructed, unhindered, and free from any burden or constraint.