Cant (architecture)

In architecture, a cant refers to a sloping or beveled line or surface, or an oblique angle. It commonly describes a corner which has been chamfered or angled off, rather than being a right angle. A cant can apply to a wall, a window, a doorway, or any other architectural element.

The purpose of a cant can be varied. Functionally, it can ease the flow of traffic, improve visibility, or prevent sharp corners from being damaged. Aesthetically, a cant can add visual interest and soften the harshness of straight lines, creating a more fluid or dynamic design. It can also contribute to a building's overall style, being frequently used in various historical and contemporary architectural movements.

The term "cant" can also refer to a bay window supported on brackets or corbels, often having a polygonal shape with angled sides. In this context, it describes the angled facets forming the bay window's projection.

While often used interchangeably with "chamfer", a cant is generally understood to be a more significant angle than a simple chamfer. A chamfer is usually a small, angled surface created by removing a sharp edge, while a cant can be a more substantial alteration to the shape of a feature.