Definition of disencumbernext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb disencumber differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of disencumber are disembarrass, disentangle, extricate, and untangle. While all these words mean "to free from what binds or holds back," disencumber implies a release from something that clogs or weighs down.

an article disencumbered of jargon

When would disembarrass be a good substitute for disencumber?

The words disembarrass and disencumber can be used in similar contexts, but disembarrass suggests a release from something that impedes or hinders.

disembarrassed herself of her advisers

How do disentangle and untangle relate to one another, in the sense of disencumber?

Both disentangle and untangle suggest painstaking separation of a thing from other things.

disentangling fact from fiction
untangle a web of deceit

When is extricate a more appropriate choice than disencumber?

The meanings of extricate and disencumber largely overlap; however, extricate implies the use of care or ingenuity in freeing from a difficult position or situation.

extricated himself from financial difficulties

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of disencumber However, before negotiations between Lyon and the Gunners can begin in earnest, the Gunners may first have to disencumber themselves of the German's £350,000-a-week wages. SI.com, 3 July 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disencumber
Verb
  • In one video posted on Instagram, several people are seen on the side of the bridge unloading what appears to be several boxes of fireworks.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026
  • Officer secured the firearm, which was later determined to be unloaded, police said.
    Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 18 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Brett Crossland came on to relieve Volantis and generated three quick ground balls for a clean inning.
    David Eckert, Austin American Statesman, 22 Feb. 2026
  • By this time, both Ono and Lennon had found a form of relief in primal scream therapy, the psychological methodology that purports to relieve repressed pain through its intense expression.
    Sadie Sartini Garner, Pitchfork, 21 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • This would reduce weight, lower launch costs, and free up space for scientific instruments or communication payloads.
    Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 21 Feb. 2026
  • Venezuela’s socialist regime pushed through a sweeping amnesty law late Thursday that could free hundreds of political prisoners and reshape the country’s fragile transition after strongman Nicolás Maduro’s capture — but critics warn the measure excludes key opponents.
    Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 20 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Disencumber.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disencumber. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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