Cantilevered

/ˈkæntɪˌlevərd/ adjective

Definition

Constructed or supported by a cantilever; extending out horizontally without support from below, like a diving board.

Etymology

From 'cantilever,' possibly from Italian 'cantilena' or French sources, combined with '-ed' to show the finished state. The term became prominent in English during the 17th century as architectural engineering advanced.

Kelly Says

The Hoover Dam has massive cantilevered sections, and modern glass skyscrapers use cantilevered floors to seem to float in air—engineers have to fight gravity itself! The word's origin is mysterious, but it perfectly describes this dramatic architectural trick.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.