rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryonerousBurdensome
adjective

onerous

OH-ner-us/ˈəʊnərəs/

Difficult to bear because of the effort or responsibility required.

Pushing the heavily loaded handcart uphill is an onerous task for the woman.

An older woman labors to push a heavily loaded handcart up a short incline, making the burdensome effort unmistakable.
Etymology
onerLatinload, burden
+ousLatinfull of

The pieces describe something burden-laden. Latin onus could mean both a physical load and figurative trouble or expense, providing the image behind a task or duty that weighs heavily on someone.

In context

The Scottish Parliament47:48
looking to put onerous and unworkable burdens on our farmers in order to sell the concept of continued direct payments
Rural Affairs and Islands Committee Debate: Future Agriculture Policy in Scotland - 25 May 2023

More examples

  • The loan comes with onerous repayment terms.
  • Sharing the chores makes the work less onerous.
  • Keeping detailed records is the most onerous part of her job.

Forms

onerous · more onerous · most onerous

Similar words

burdensome
Emphasizes a heavy load of trouble, expense, or responsibility.
demanding
Emphasizes required effort or skill without necessarily suggesting unfair hardship.
arduous
Emphasizes sustained, strenuous effort rather than obligations or restrictive conditions.