Took the DAIS is a phrase that refers to someone taking a position of authority, usually in a public setting. The term is derived from the Latin word 'DAIS, ' which means platform or raised area. In this context, it implies that the person has taken a place of prominence and is ready to address an audience. The crossword solution for this term is 'ORATED, ' which means to speak formally in public. Therefore, the phrase 'took the DAIS' can be interpreted as someone taking the stage to give a speech.