Lecterns Key Terms

Some key terms for lecterns and speaking venue gear

The lectern goes by many names, and it is available in many shapes, styles, colors and designs. Lecterns are a must for any venue in which a speaker will be folding forth. Churches, schools and corporations all rely on this kind of furniture to help deliver professional and quality impressions to an audience. Knowing about some of the key terms related to these ancient devices will help business managers make good buying decisions and understand more about all of the gear they are looking for to outfit a speaking venue.

 

Podium

A podium is a raised space like a stage, where a speaker or other person addresses an audience. However, another very real definition of a podium is a "stand," and many also use the term "podium" to describe a lectern.
Try: Find out more about podiums at Podiums and Lecterns. Get both definitions at The Free Dictionary.

Lectern microphone

The lectern often goes along with a special kind of microphone. Lectern microphones are mics that are mounted onto a lectern for the specific purpose of recording those speaking there. Lectern mics come in various shapes and sizes.
Try: See a definition of lectern microphones (directly under the heading) and a long list of specs for different models at Pro AV Magazine.

Rostrum

This now-obscure term is used interchangeably with "lectern."
Try: Find out more about all of the synonyms used to describe lecterns at  Podium and Lectern store.

Pulpit

The pulpit can refer to either a stand or a raised space. Many use it to describe a religious figure's overall position, but others use it for the actual stand they use when speaking, and so it has become another synonym for a lectern.
Try: See this as well as another definition at Merriam Webster.

P.A. system

Many of us commonly refer to a P.A. system as a place where a speaker can use a lectern, be it a church, public hall or corporate space. The P.A. stands for "public address." A public address system is the system used to amplify whatever goes on at the front of a room or anywhere else.
Try: Find definitions for a P.A. system at Babylon Free Dictionary. Also see Musician's Friend for a full description.

Portable lecterns

One choice for less-permanent speaking venues is a portable lectern. A portable lectern is one that can be easily moved from place to place.
Try: Get product definitions and more on portable lecterns from Ergo in Demand.

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