cantilevered

Cantilevered refers to a structural element that is anchored at one end and projects horizontally beyond its support without external bracing at the projecting end. In engineering terms, a cantilever beam is fixed to a support at one end and carries loads at the free end or along its length. The arrangement creates bending moments and shear at the fixed support, and the free end deflects under load. Designing a cantilever requires sufficient stiffness and strength, often achieved through reinforcement, pre-stressing, or the use of strong materials.

Loads on cantilevered elements include dead loads (the weight of the element itself), live loads (people or equipment), and environmental forces such as wind or seismic activity. The behavior of a cantilever is governed by bending, shear, and deflection limits, which determine how much the overhanging portion can extend while remaining safe and functional. Materials such as steel, reinforced concrete, and timber are commonly used, with construction methods tailored to achieve the necessary stiffness and durability.

Cantilevered structures are widespread in architecture and infrastructure. Common applications include balconies and overhangs, shelves and countertops, bridges and crane booms, and certain types of staircases. Cantilever bridges, which use paired cantilever arms anchored at piers to support a central span, are a notable example; the Forth Bridge in Scotland is a well-known historic illustration. Proper design also accounts for joints at the fixed end, potential torsion, and long-term effects such as creep or corrosion to ensure stability and safety.