Pick the best definition for encumbered in excerpt from Cathers My Ántonia below The engine was panting heavily after its long run In red glow firebox a group of people stood?

You're likely referring to this passage from Willa Cather's "My Ántonia":

> "The engine was panting heavily after its long run. In the red glow of the firebox, a group of people stood."

In this context, encumbered wouldn't be the best word to describe the engine. Here's why:

* Encumbered usually refers to being burdened or weighed down, often by something physical.

* The engine is panting, which suggests it's struggling, but not necessarily weighed down.

Here are some better options:

* Strained: This suggests the engine is working hard and is near its limit.

* Overworked: This highlights the engine's effort after a long journey.

* Exhausted: This emphasizes the engine's fatigue.

The best choice depends on the exact tone you want to convey.