the application of a mechanical load or force to something

the branches of a tree diminish in cross section according to their loading

the application of an extra amount of something to balance some other factor

(of a gun, machine, or lorry) loaded in a specified way

a front-loading dishwasher

fill (a vehicle, ship, container, etc.) with a large amount of something

they go to Calais to load up their vans with cheap beer

make (someone or something) carry or hold a large or excessive quantity of heavy things

Elaine was loaded down with bags full of shopping

charge (a firearm) with ammunition

he began to load the gun

add an extra charge to (an insurance premium) to take account of a factor that increases the risk