Cumbersome

Cumbersome is a term used to describe something that is large, heavy, and difficult to manage or handle. It can also refer to tasks or processes that are complicated and time-consuming. The word is often used in various contexts, including engineering, medicine, information technology, and everyday life.

Etymology

The word "cumbersome" originates from the Middle English word "cumbrous," which means "troublesome" or "burdensome." It is derived from the Old French word "combrer," meaning "to hinder" or "to obstruct."

Usage in Different Fields

Engineering

In engineering, cumbersome often describes equipment or machinery that is difficult to move or operate due to its size or complexity. For example, a large crane used in construction might be considered cumbersome because it requires significant effort to transport and set up.

Medicine

In the field of medicine, cumbersome can refer to medical procedures or equipment that are difficult to use or manage. For instance, certain types of medical imaging devices may be cumbersome due to their size and the complexity of their operation.

Information Technology

In information technology, cumbersome can describe software or systems that are difficult to use or manage. For example, a legacy database management system might be considered cumbersome because it requires extensive manual intervention and is not user-friendly.

Everyday Life

In everyday life, cumbersome is often used to describe objects or tasks that are awkward or difficult to handle. For example, moving a large piece of furniture can be a cumbersome task.

Synonyms

Some common synonyms for cumbersome include:

• Bulky
• Unwieldy
• Clumsy
• Burdensome
• Troublesome

Antonyms

Antonyms for cumbersome include:

• Manageable
• Convenient
• Lightweight
• Streamlined

Related Concepts

• Ergonomics
• User experience
• Efficiency
• Productivity

See Also

• Complexity
• Usability
• Human factors and ergonomics