As Parliamentarians, my law partner Carole Albright and I often find ourselves on stage assisting with the organization and procedure of meetings. In that setting, we frequently hear people use the terms podium, lectern, and dais interchangeably. In reality, they refer to distinct objects with specific purposes.
While these are not exclusively parliamentary terms, understanding their proper usage helps maintain clarity. I once heard association staff ask the AV professionals to bring in a “podium” when a “lectern” was needed. Using the correct terms can both prevent confusion as well as show professionalism.
Let’s break down the differences between the terms, including their etymology, pronunciations, and correct usage.
Podium (ˈpō-dē-əm)
A podium is a raised platform on which a speaker or performer stands. The key distinction here is that a podium is something you stand on, not something you stand behind.
The word podium comes from the Latin podium, meaning “a raised platform,” which itself stems from the Greek πόδιον (pódion), meaning “a small foot” or “base.” This etymology highlights a podium as a platform that elevates a speaker or performer above the audience. To remember: note that a foot doctor is a “podiatrist,” just as a podium is something you put your feet on.
Usage: “The officers will be on the podium facing the audience.”
Lectern (ˈlek-tərn)
A lectern is a stand with a slanted top designed to hold notes or books for the speaker. While lecterns were traditionally wood, they are now sometimes made of glass or clear plastic. (I could write a separate article noting that while clear lecterns are attractive, they are far less functional, as all of the papers and mess that people take to the lectern is then viewed by the audience from underneath!) Unlike a podium, a lectern does not elevate a speaker—it is simply something a presiding officer or presenter stands behind to rest their materials.
The word lectern comes from the Latin lectrum, derived from legere, meaning “to read.” This reflects the traditional use of lecterns in churches, classrooms, and lecture halls where speakers or readers place books and notes.
Usage: “The speaker placed her notes on the lectern before beginning her presentation.”
Other Less Used Terms
Though rarer, you will occasionally hear the terms “dais” and “rostrum.” Historically, a dais (pronounced ˈdā-əs or sometimes ˈdī-əs) and rostrum were raised platforms at the front of a room used for honored guests, officials, or speakers. Unlike a podium, which traditionally was for a single speaker, a dais or rostrum could accommodate multiple people, such as a panel or a head table. Such distinctions seem to have gone away, especially in American English, and the term “podium” is now used for most any raised stage.
The word dais comes from the Old French deis, which originated from the Latin discus, meaning “table” or “platform.” This historical connection emphasizes its role as a space for distinguished figures.
Even though you may not hear it often, the etymology of the word “rostrum” is too good not to mention. The word rostrum comes from Latin and originally meant “beak.” Roman warships had sharp, beak-like fronts to ram enemy ships. After battles, the Romans took these beaks (rōstra) and used them as a stage where leaders gave speeches. Over time, “rostrum” came to mean the speaking platform.
Summary
- If you are standing on an elevated platform to speak, you are on a podium.
- If you are reading from a stand that holds your notes, you are using a lectern.
These distinctions may seem minor, but for those of us who frequently work in structured settings—such as parliamentary meetings, conventions, and formal ceremonies—using the correct terminology enhances professionalism and precision. Next time you’re at an event, take a moment to observe whether the speaker is standing on a podium or behind a lectern. You’ll also be surprised at how often these terms are used incorrectly!
FOLLOW-UP NOTE: I’m told that within the AV world, the word “podium” can mean a lectern, and a “dais” is a stage. And a floor lectern (versus a table lectern) is sometimes referred to as a “podium.” This multitude of terms only reinforces my advice that you be very clear and descriptive as to your exact needs!