dais
/ˈdeɪɪs
/ /deɪs /noun
A low platform for a lectern or throne.The gazes of all in the room followed Lamar as she ascended the steps of the dais and stood in front of the throne, facing them....
- She stood on the dais and placed her hands on the waist high posts.
- Martin stood on the dais where the lectern usually sat, a low brazier to either side.
Synonyms
platform, stage, podium, rostrum, stand, grandstand, staging, apron, soapbox, stump;
lectern, pulpit, box, dock;
Indian mandapam
rare tribune
Origin
Middle English (originally denoting a raised table for distinguished guests): from Old French deis, from Latin discus 'disc or dish' (later 'table'). Little used after the Middle English period, the word was revived by antiquarians in the early 19th century with the disyllabic pronunciation.