cantilever
UK[ˈkantɪliːvə]US[ˈkæntəˌlivər]
n
A long projecting beam or girder fixed at only one end, used chiefly in bridge construction.
n
A bracket or beam projecting from a wall to support a balcony, cornice, or similar structure.
v
To support by a cantilever or project as a cantilever.
Etymology
The word 'cantilever' is a compound whose origins are somewhat obscure but likely rooted in 17th-century building terminology. The first element is probably 'canty' or 'cant', an architectural term for a corner or angle, combined with 'lever', a rigid bar used to exert force. The literal sense is thus a "lever at an angle" or a "corner lever." This perfectly describes the structural principle of a beam anchored at one end, using leverage to support a load at the other. The term evolved from this descriptive, literal combination into a precise technical term in engineering and architecture for a fundamental structural component.
Analysis
The word is a simplex loanword. Its spelling and form were adopted as a whole from English dialectal usage in the 17th century.
Examples
The new museum features a dramatic cantilevered balcony that seems to float over the plaza.
The bridge was built using a cantilever design, with large arms extending from each pier.
They plan to cantilever the upper floor to create covered parking below.