Real Estate

Cantilever (noun) refers to a beam or structure anchored at only one end, extending horizontally to support loads at the other end without external bracing. It is used in architecture and engineering to create overhangs or suspended spans. The term implies a projecting member that remains stable through counterbalancing and internal moments.

Caulk refers to a material—typically a flexible, waterproof sealant—used to fill joints or gaps in structures to prevent air, water, or pests from passing through. It can be a noun (the material itself or a patch) or a verb meaning to seal with caulk. In construction and home repair contexts, it denotes a pliable filler that remains soft and adherent after application.

Cement is a building material composed mainly of lime or Portland cement, mixed with aggregates to form concrete. As a noun, it refers to the binding powder itself or to concrete when used as a material in construction. It can also function as a verb meaning to attach or bind with cement. The term emphasizes the binding quality that hardens over time.

Clerestory is a noun describing a high, vertical window or row of windows set above eye level to bring light into a room, typically found in churches or large halls. It refers to the upper-story windows that illuminate interior spaces without admitting direct glare. The term emphasizes architectural function and daylight distribution rather than decorative purpose.

Collateral is an adjective meaning supplementary or accompanying; in finance, it describes an asset pledged to secure a loan. It conveys a secondary or supportive role, not primary, and often relates to security or protection in agreements or risk management. The term is also used in legal and policy contexts to describe information or relationships that are indirect yet relevant to a matter.

Column is a vertical stack or list, often used to organize information in writing or architecture. It can also refer to a vertical architectural support or pillar. In computing, a column is a field in a database or table. The term conveys structure, alignment, and support across contexts.

Concrete, when used as an adjective, means something real, tangible, and definite, not theoretical. It contrasts with abstract ideas by emphasizing specifics, facts, or physical evidence. In everyday use, you can refer to a concrete plan or a concrete example to illustrate a point clearly and reliably.

Condominium is a self-contained housing unit generally within a larger building or complex, legally distinct from other units with shared ownership of common areas. It denotes a form of property ownership rather than mere rental space, often with fee-based maintenance and governance. The term emphasizes privately owned units within a multi-unit structure and is commonly used in real estate, urban planning, and housing markets.

Conduit is a noun referring to a channel or pipe that conducts something, such as liquids, cables, or air, from one place to another. It can also mean a person or thing that transmits or distributes something, like information or influence. In technical contexts it implies a controlled, engineered path for transmission.

Conveyance is the legal or formal process of transferring property or title from one party to another, or the instrument that evidences the transfer. It can also refer to the act of conveying information or goods. The term is chiefly used in law, real estate, and logistics contexts, emphasizing formal transfer and documentation rather than mere communication.

Cornice is a decorative molding around the top edge of a wall or structure, typically projecting outward. It often serves an architectural or ornamental purpose and can be found indoors or on exterior facades. The term can also refer to a projecting ledge or lip on a roof or cornice-like feature in architecture.

Covenant (noun) refers to a solemn, formal agreement or promise between parties, often with binding, moral, or legal weight. It can also denote a treaty or alliance. In religious contexts, it denotes a sacred agreement between God and people. The term implies mutual commitments, obligations, and enduring fidelity that extend beyond casual promises.

Curb is a noun referring to the edge of a sidewalk or pavement that forms a boundary between the sidewalk and the street. It can also mean to control or restrain something, such as curb spending or curb one's temper. The term is frequently used in urban contexts and legal or policy discussions about road design and behavior management. In pronunciation, curb is a single-syllable word with a rhotic American pronunciation.

Defect (noun) refers to a flaw or imperfection in something, or the act of failing to meet a required standard. It can describe a fault in materials, a defect in a system, or a shortcoming in performance. The term often carries formal or technical connotations, and it can also denote a disability present from birth in medical contexts.