dais

American  

[dey-is, dahy-, deys] / ˈdeɪ ɪs, ˈdaɪ-, deɪs /

noun

1. a raised platform, as at the front of a room, for a lectern, throne, seats of honor, etc.

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dais British  

/ ˈdeɪɪs, deɪs /

noun

1. a raised platform, usually at one end of a hall, used by speakers, etc

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Etymology

Origin of dais

1225–75; Middle English deis < Anglo-French ( Old French dois ) < Latin discus quoit; see discus

Explanation

A speaker stands on a dais, or a platform, when giving a presentation. If you were speaking at the Coffee Lovers of America's conference, you'd step onto the dais so the audience could see you over their enormous cups o' joe. Dais comes to us from the Old French word deis, which was originally pronounced with only one syllable — more like days than the current day-us. If you take a course in a lecture hall, your professor will need to stand on the dais so everyone can see her better.

Example Sentences

But she’s a captivating live presence and 2021’s strobe-saturated “Gold,” released on ultra-hip L.A./N.Y. label Dais, suggests that a pop breakthrough isn’t out of the question.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2023

“Any chance I can get you guys to leave the Senate wing?” the officer says as Chansley sits in the presiding officer’s chair on the Senate Dais.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 10, 2023

His last name is spelled Dais in some court and police documents.

From Washington Post • Aug. 27, 2020

Ms. Dais played an important role online because “she wasn’t just a connector, she was providing some level of skill to individuals who otherwise wouldn’t have it,” he said.

From New York Times • Apr. 23, 2019

Now this particular Joiner wanted to be up on a carpeted Dais every blessed Evening, having the Brothers march in front of him and give him the High Office.

From More Fables by Ade, George

Related Words

• podium
• rostrum
• terrace