'bandstand' originates from English, specifically the compound of 'band' and 'stand', where 'band' meant 'a group of musicians' and 'stand' meant 'a raised place for standing or performing'.

'bandstand' was formed in the late 19th century by compounding the words 'band' (originally from older Germanic roots for a group or binding) and 'stand' (from Old English 'standan' meaning 'to stand'), and came into use to name outdoor stages for musical bands.

Initially, it meant 'a stand for a band to play on', and over time this meaning has remained largely unchanged, still referring to outdoor stages for musical performance.