a difficult or disagreeable obligation, task, burden, etc.

burden of proof. Compare onus probandi .

blame or responsibility.

noun

aid , benefit , blessing , help

noun

bar sinister , black eye * , blame , blot , blur , brand , charge , culpability , deadweight , duty , encumbrance , fault , guilt , incubus , liability , load , millstone * , obligation , odium , oppression , responsibility , slur , spot , stain , stigma , task , tax , weight , millstone , black eye , blemish , taint , tarnish , burden