dais

UK: ˈdeɪ.ɪs | US: ˈdeɪ.ɪs

Definition

  1. n. a raised platform for speakers or honored guests

Structure
dai <raised>s <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "dais" originates from Old French deis (meaning "platform" or "table"), which itself derives from Latin discus (meaning "disk" or "table"). Over time, the term evolved in Middle English to specifically denote a raised platform for dignitaries or speakers. The morpheme dai- reflects the elevated nature of the structure, while -s serves as a noun-forming suffix.

Examples

  1. The mayor stood on the dais to deliver her speech.

  2. A floral arrangement adorned the edge of the dais.

  3. The award recipients were seated on the dais during the ceremony.

  4. The professor stepped down from the dais after his lecture.

  5. The wooden dais creaked under the weight of the speakers.