dais Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a platform raised above the surrounding level to give prominence to the person on it
    soapbox; stump; podium; ambo; pulpit; rostrum.

WordNet

Da"is noun
Etymology
OE. deis, des, table, dais, OF. deis table, F. dais a canopy, L. discus a quoit, a dish (from the shape), LL., table, fr. Gr. a quoit, a dish. See Dish.
Definitions
  1. The high or principal table, at the end of a hall, at which the chief guests were seated; also, the chief seat at the high table. Obs.
  2. A platform slightly raised above the floor of a hall or large room, giving distinction to the table and seats placed upon it for the chief guests.
  3. A canopy over the seat of a person of dignity. Obs. Shiply.

Webster 1913