cantilever

Vocabulary Word

Definition

A 'cantilever' is a beam or other support that is only attached or anchored from one side. It sticks out and can hold weight, like the blade of a one-armed scale. Buildings use them for overhangs, bridges, and even shelves.

Examples in Different Contexts

In sustainable architecture, cantilever designs can provide shade and passive cooling, reducing the building's energy consumption. An environmentalist might note, 'The cantilevered overhangs in this eco-home help in minimizing the need for air conditioning.'

Practice Scenarios

Design

Scenario:

This floating shelf design seems a bit precarious. Can we ensure it's able to reliably hold weight?

Response:

As long as we don't overload it, the shelf’s cantilever design should manage the weight reliably.

Aerospace

Scenario:

The aircraft's wing strength and stability are critical. Any way we could enhance it without increasing the weight?

Response:

Implementing a cantilever design for the aircraft's wings might improve the stability without adding to the weight.