Pulpit

n. [Lat. pulpitum, It. & Sp. pulpito, O. Fr. pulpite, poulpitre, N. Fr. pupitre.]

1. (Rom. Theater.) The front part of the stage, where the actors performed their parts.
2. An elevated place, or inclosed stage, in a church, in which the preacher stands;—called also desk; hence, preaching; public religious exercises.

I say the pulpit (in the sober use Of its legitimate, peculiar powers) Must stand acknowledged, while the world shall stand, The most important and effectual guard, Support, and ornament of virtue's cause. Cowper. 3. A movable desk, from which disputants pronounced their dissertations, and authors recited their works.