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Dais Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dais

[deɪɪs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

royal

A low platform for a lectern, seats of honour, or a throne.

Synonyms

platform, podium, stage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dais

A low platform for a lectern, seats of honor, or a throne, often used in formal settings like ceremonies or official events.

  • The CEO stood on the dais to give her speech
  • The wedding couple sat on a decorated dais at the reception
platform

A raised area for speakers, performers, or the staging of equipment, often used in general settings, including both informal and formal occasions.

  • The band performed on a wooden platform in the park
  • The politician addressed the crowd from a small platform
podium

A small elevated platform for a speaker, conductor, or an award recipient, especially common in contexts like public speaking, musical performances, or sporting events.

  • She stepped onto the podium to receive her gold medal
  • The lecturer adjusted the microphone on the podium
stage

A large area where performances such as plays, concerts, and presentations are carried out, used predominantly in entertainment and event contexts.

  • The actors took a bow on the stage after the play
  • The concert was breathtaking from the front row, right near the stage

Examples of usage

  • The queen ascended to the dais to deliver her speech.
  • The dais was adorned with beautiful flowers for the ceremony.
Context #2 | Noun

formal

A raised platform at one end of a room, used by a lecturer, guest of honour, etc.

Synonyms

platform, podium, rostrum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dais

Used to refer to a low platform for a lectern, seats of honor, or a throne. Commonly found in formal settings like ceremonies or academic events.

  • The dignitaries were seated on the dais during the award ceremony
  • The professor walked up to the dais to deliver his lecture
rostrum

Often used in contexts involving speeches or public speaking, especially in a formal or official setting. It conveys a sense of authority or importance.

  • The politician delivered his speech from the rostrum
  • The principal used the rostrum during the school assembly
platform

A general term for any raised horizontal surface. It can be used in various contexts, such as stages for performances, railway stations, or any structure that elevates people or objects.

  • The band performed on a large concert platform
  • We waited for the train on the platform
podium

Typically used for a small raised platform where a speaker or performer stands. It often refers to the stand for holding notes during speeches or presentations.

  • The speaker stood at the podium to address the audience
  • The medal winners stood on the podium during the awards ceremony

Examples of usage

  • The guest speaker stood on the dais to address the audience.
  • The dais was decorated with elegant drapes for the event.
Context #3 | Noun

historical

A raised floor or platform, typically within a large room or hall, used for special guests or ceremonies.

Synonyms

platform, podium, stage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dais

A 'dais' is typically a low platform or a raised area in a room, where speakers, honored guests, or important people sit or stand. It is most commonly used in formal settings such as conferences, ceremonies, or official gatherings.

  • The principal stood on the dais to address the students.
  • The awards were handed out from the dais during the ceremony.
platform

A 'platform' can refer to any flat, raised structure used to perform activities such as speeches, performances, or presentations. It is a more general term and can be used in various contexts, from political rallies to train stations.

  • The politician addressed the crowd from a platform in the center of the square.
  • Passengers are advised to wait on the platform until the train arrives.
stage

A 'stage' is a large, raised area typically used for performances, including plays, concerts, and other forms of entertainment. It is most often associated with theaters, auditoriums, and other venues for large audiences.

  • The band took the stage amid loud applause from the crowd.
  • The actors practiced on the stage before the final performance.
podium

A 'podium' is a raised stand or platform, often with a slanted top, specifically intended for speakers to stand behind while making a speech or presentation. It is commonly used during lectures, conferences, or academic events.

  • The professor stood behind the podium to deliver his lecture.
  • The keynote speaker walked up to the podium to begin his address.

Examples of usage

  • The knights gathered around the dais for the knighting ceremony.
  • The dais was where the king sat during court proceedings.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Dais structures can be found in various cultural architecture, often serving as focal points in a hall or auditorium.
  • Many historic buildings, like cathedrals or palaces, have elaborate dais designs for special ceremonies and royal events.
  • In some cultures, a dais signifies authority or honor, emphasizing the elevated position of speakers or leaders.

Cultural Significance

  • Dais is commonly used in formal settings such as weddings, graduations, and political speeches, symbolizing respect and elevation of importance.
  • In certain traditions, a dais may be adorned with flowers or symbols that represent the occasion or the people speaking.
  • Various cultures have unique customs surrounding the use of a dais, such as the specific way it's decorated or who is allowed to stand on it.

Literature

  • Dais has appeared in classical literature, often used to symbolize power dynamics during important assemblies or discussions.
  • Shakespeare's works frequently reference raised platforms, conveying the importance of a character's speech or presence.
  • In modern storytelling, the use of a dais can signify a turning point in the narrative where a character's status is revealed or challenged.

Psychology

  • Standing on a dais can influence the perception of authority, making the speaker appear more confident and influential.
  • Research has shown that elevated positions, such as a dais, can affect audience engagement, leading to heightened attention during speeches.
  • The physical elevation of a dais is psychologically associated with increased responsibility and visibility in a social context.

Origin of 'dais'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'dais' comes from the Old French 'dais,' which means 'a raised platform,' tracing back to the Latin 'discus' meaning 'disk,' referring to a flat surface.
  • In Middle English, it was used to describe a table or a surface meant for important gatherings.
  • Interestingly, the term evolved from a reference to a type of table where food would be served in noble households.

The word 'dais' originated from the Old French 'deis', meaning a table or platform. It entered Middle English from the 13th century onwards, referring to a raised platform for seating dignitaries. Over time, 'dais' evolved to represent a platform for ceremonial or formal occasions, often associated with royalty or prestigious events.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,613, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.