Dado (architecture)

The word is borrowed from Italian meaning "dice" or "cube",[2] and refers to "die", an architectural term for the middle section of a pedestal or plinth.

[3] This area is given a decorative treatment different from that for the upper part of the wall; for example panelling, wainscoting or lincrusta.

Historically, the panelling below the dado rail was installed to cover the lower part of the wall which was subject to stains associated with rising damp; additionally it provided protection from furniture and passing traffic.

The name was first used in English as an architectural term for the part of a pedestal between the base and the cornice.

The dado in a pedestal is roughly cubical in shape, and the word in Italian means "dice" or "cube" (ultimately Latin datum, meaning "something given", hence also a die for casting lots).