burden

Definition

  • noun: something heavy that is carried
  • noun: something that is carried
  • verb: to make (someone) hold or carry something heavy or accept or deal with something difficult
  • often + 'on'
  • synonyms: load, load, birth

Examples

  • The 'burden of proof' is on the plaintiff, since the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. [=the plaintiff must prove that the defendant is guilty]

  • The 'tax burden' has been falling increasingly on the middle class. [=middle class people have been paying a greater portion of taxes]

  • For the rest of his life he 'was burdened' with the knowledge that he had done nothing to help them.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) A home...family... ...Iove. Men speak conveniently of love when it serves their purpose. When it doesn't, 'tis a burden to them. Robin of the Hood... ...Prince of Thieves... ...is he capable of love? Father! It's Mother, she's dying! (..)
    1991 Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
  • (..) Tell the Sheriff for every harm he does these people I will repay him tenfold. Something vexes thee? What the devil? It's a hot day, friend... ...to burden your horse with such a heavy purse. The Sheriff will hear of this! I truly hope so. Buy yourself a new sow. God bless you, Fanny. (..)
    1991 Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves