noun

cantilever

/ˈkæntɪˌlevər/ · say it: KAN·ti·lev·er

a structure that projects with support at only one end

In Architecture & Design

In more detail

1. (noun) a beam or structure that is fixed at one end and extends outward, with no support at the other end

2. (verb) to project or extend outward like a cantilever

Examples

1. The diving board is a cantilever that extends over the pool.
2. The balcony cantilevered out from the building's side.

How to use cantilever

Cantilever is a technical architectural and engineering term describing a structural element that projects horizontally from a fixed point with no external support at its free end. It is used in both noun form (a cantilever) and verb form (to cantilever something), and is common in professional and educational contexts discussing buildings, bridges, and mechanical design.

Common phrases

cantilever beam
cantilever bridge
cantilever arm
cantilever structure
cantilever out

Synonyms

overhang · projection · bracket · corbel · jetty

Word family

cantilevered (adjective) · cantilevering (verb form)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse cantilever with simple overhang or projection, missing that a true cantilever must be firmly fixed at one end and completely unsupported at the other, with internal structural integrity preventing collapse.

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