Burden

Definition

Burden refers to a heavy load, typically one that causes hardship or stress. It can also mean a duty or responsibility that is difficult to bear or manage. In another sense, it can mean the main theme or recurring idea in a piece of music or literature.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɝːd(ə)n/
• Respelling: BUR-duhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɜːd(ə)n/
• Respelling: BUR-duhn

The pronunciation of "burden" is similar in both American and British English, with slight variations in vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "burden" originates from the Old English "byrthen," meaning "load" or "cargo," and is derived from the Proto-Germanic "burthinō," meaning "to carry" or "bear." The word has maintained similar meanings across various languages within the Germanic family, consistently referring to something carried or endured.

Derivatives

• Burdened (adjective)
• Unburden (verb)
• Burdening (noun)
• Overburden (verb)
• Burdensome (adjective)

Synonyms

• Load
• Encumbrance
• Weight

Antonyms

• Relief
• Lightness
• Ease

Usage

The word "burden" is commonly used to describe a difficult responsibility or a heavy load. For example, "She felt the burden of caring for her sick relatives," or "The financial burden of student loans can be overwhelming." It can also refer to a recurring theme in a work of art, as in "The burden of the song was sorrow and loss."

Related Terms

• Liability: A duty or responsibility that often brings difficulty or risk.
• Obligation: A moral or legal duty or commitment.
• Responsibility: A duty to deal with something or manage it effectively.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A heavy load or responsibility: Refers to a physical or emotional load that is difficult to bear.
  • Example: "The young man felt the burden of his family's expectations on his shoulders."
• The main theme or recurring idea in a piece of music or literature: Used to describe a repeated concept or theme.
  • Example: "The burden of the story revolves around forgiveness and redemption."

Verb

• To load heavily or cause hardship: Refers to the act of imposing a heavy responsibility or difficulty on someone.
  • Example: "The new regulations will burden small businesses with additional costs."