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
  • Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... Aid groups are unloading food and other critical supplies in the Gaza Strip, after a monthslong blockade that has put children at risk of famine.
    Anna Mulrine Grobe, Christian Science Monitor, 23 May 2025
  • Once Devon can unload caretaking duties for Bruce (their father), Simone says life is going to get really good for her.
    Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 22 May 2025
Verb
  • Therapies can relieve certain underlying issues triggering sleep paralysis, including cognitive behavioral therapy, especially the version for people with insomnia.
    Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 8 June 2025
  • One user said a local Apple support representative advised resetting network settings to temporarily relieve the issues.
    Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 6 June 2025
Verb
  • With its easy setup and free unlimited storage, family members can instantly share photos from anywhere.
    Jené Luciani Sena may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 7 June 2025
  • Experts agree that the new political landscape has freed up states to explore other methods that may have struggled to hold up under a more liberal court.
    Amanda Lee Myers, USA Today, 6 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Disencumber.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disencumber. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.

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