cantilever
KAN-tih-lee-ver
/ˈkæntɪˌliːvər/
A long projecting beam or girder fixed at only one end, used in bridge construction and modern architecture.
Describes a structure that extends horizontally into space without any support at the far end, relying on a rigid anchor at the fixed end.
The story behind the word. The word appeared in English in the 17th century. While 'lever' clearly refers to the mechanical bar, 'cant' likely refers to an angle or edge. Early builders used the term to describe the timber brackets that supported overhanging roofs.
Word relationships
- projection: A projection is any part of a building that sticks out, whereas a cantilever is a specific structural element engineered to carry loads.
- bracket: A bracket is a small support element, while a cantilever is a major structural beam.
- span: A span is supported at both ends, unlike a cantilever which is open at one end.
Commonly confused with
- suspension: A suspension bridge hangs the deck from cables, while a cantilever bridge supports the deck using rigid beams anchored at the banks.
Word family
- cantilevered (adjective): Constructed as or supported by a cantilever.
Collocations
- cantilever bridge
- cantilever balcony
- cantilever beam
- cantilevered structure
Example sentences
- "Frank Lloyd Wright's famous house, Fallingwater, features dramatic cantilevered concrete balconies that float over a waterfall." Modernist architecture
- "The bridge design utilizes a massive cantilever to span the deep river gorge without placing piers in the water." Bridge engineering
Memory hook
Think of a 'cantilever' as a beam that 'can' 'lever' itself out into empty space because it is anchored so tightly at the wall. Levers out into the air.
When not to use
Do not use for beams that are supported at both ends (simple beams) or supported by columns throughout their length.
Fun facts
- The Forth Bridge in Scotland, completed in 1890, is one of the world's most famous cantilever bridges and contains over 50,000 tons of steel.
Related words
Also appears in
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