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burden

noun

/ˈbəːdn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of burden

A heavy load, responsibility, or source of stress and difficulty that weighs on an individual, a group, or a situation.
"She felt the burden of responsibility for her younger siblings."

Detailed meaning of burden

It can be both physical and metaphorical in nature. In the physical sense, a burden is a weight that must be carried or transported, often causing physical strain. Metaphorically, a burden represents the emotional, psychological, or financial challenges and obligations that individuals or organizations must bear. This can include financial debts, caregiving responsibilities, or the weight of expectations and societal pressures. A burden can be something imposed externally or self-imposed, and it typically implies a sense of hardship or adversity. Managing or alleviating burdens is a common aspect of life, and it often requires careful planning, support, or a collective effort to bear the load effectively.

Example sentences containing burden

1. The burden of student loans can be overwhelming for recent graduates.
2. A supportive friend can help ease the burden of life's challenges.
3. The responsibility of caring for elderly parents can be a heavy burden.
4. The burden of leadership often comes with tough decisions.
5. Carrying the burden of guilt can be emotionally exhausting.
6. The burden of poverty affects millions around the world.

History and etymology of burden

The noun 'burden' has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled as 'byrðen.' It is related to the Old High German word 'burdi,' both of which meant 'a load' or 'something carried.' In its earliest usage, 'burden' referred to a heavy load or weight that needed to be carried, often on one's back or shoulders. Over time, the term's meaning expanded to encompass not only physical loads but also metaphorical ones, such as responsibilities, obligations, or sources of stress and difficulty that weigh on an individual, a group, or a situation. 'Burden' symbolizes the weight of these various challenges and obligations, underscoring the concept of something that is carried or borne, whether in a physical or metaphorical sense. The etymology of 'burden' highlights the historical connection between physical loads and the broader burdens of life's challenges and responsibilities.

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Further usage examples of burden

1. A burden shared is a burden halved in times of crisis.
2. Shouldering the burden of a secret can be a tremendous weight.
3. The burden of expectation can be stifling for young athletes.
4. The burden of history continues to shape our world today.
5. Kindness can lighten the burden of those in despair.
6. In times of war, soldiers bear the heavy burden of duty.
7. Mental health struggles can be an invisible burden to carry.
8. The burden of debt can hinder financial freedom.
9. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution in court.
10. The burden of responsibility falls on the CEO during a crisis.
11. Unemployment can be both a financial and emotional burden.
12. Compassion can alleviate the burden of suffering for others.
13. The burden of past mistakes can haunt us if not forgiven.
14. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution in a criminal trial.
15. Carrying a heavy backpack all day put an unnecessary burden on his shoulders.
16. The burden of debt weighed heavily on her, causing constant stress.
17. He did not want to be a burden to his family as he grew older.
18. The single mother bore the burden of working two jobs to support her children.
19. The old bridge collapsed under the burden of the overloaded truck.
20. They shared the burden of household chores, making daily life more manageable.
21. The new tax laws eased the financial burden on low-income families.
22. He took on the burden of caring for his ailing grandmother with grace and dedication.
23. As a team leader, it’s important not to shoulder the entire burden alone, but to delegate tasks.
24. The welfare programs aim to alleviate the burden of poverty for struggling citizens.
25. The burden of maintaining the ancient castle fell to the youngest member of the family.