Dais

Webster's Dictionary

(1): ( n.) 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.

(2): ( n.) 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): ( n.) A canopy over the seat of a person of dignity.

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature

is (1) tabernacle work, canopies; (2) the raised platform for the principal table in the hall, hence called the high table; (3) the canopy over a president's chair. The stall-like seat of the archbishop of Canterbury remains at Mayfield, and forms the centre of the table.