What is the meaning of the word onerous?

The word "onerous" is used to describe something that is burdensome or oppressive, often implying that a task or responsibility requires a significant amount of effort and is therefore demanding in nature. This aligns perfectly with the choice that refers to it as demanding, capturing the essence of what it means to undertake a burdensome responsibility.

Understanding this term can be particularly useful in contexts where one might describe work obligations, legal responsibilities, or other tasks that feel heavy or difficult to manage. The other choices do not encapsulate this meaning; they refer to lighter or different connotations that do not reflect the weightiness associated with being onerous.