desktop

1 of 2

noun

desk·​top ˈdesk-ˌtäp 

1

: the top surface of a desk

also : an area or window on a computer screen in which icons are arranged in a manner analogous to objects on top of a desk

2

: a desktop computer

desktop

2 of 2

adjective

: of a size that can be conveniently used on a desk or table

desktop computers

compare laptop see also desktop publishing

Examples of desktop in a Sentence

Noun

The desktop was covered with books and stacks of papers.

He created a new folder on his desktop.

Adjective

She is working on a desktop video project.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The desktop app contains Dropbox Badge, a feature that extends some Dropbox functionality to Excel, PowerPoint, and Word files. —Robert Anderson, PCMAG, 12 Nov. 2024

Keep your progress going on your desktop or tablet, too. —New Atlas, 3 Nov. 2024

Adjective

There are also desktop clients for Linux, Mac, and Windows, plus apps for Android and iOS. —PCMAG, 6 Feb. 2024

Making matters worse, fewer people have this hardware due to the general shift from desktop computers to laptops. —Andy Patrizio, Ars Technica, 11 July 2023

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1925, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1958, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing desktop

• desktop publishing

Kids Definition

desktop

1 of 2 noun

desk·​top ˈdesk-ˌtäp 

1

a

: the top of a desk

b

: an area on a computer screen in which items are arranged as if on top of a desk

2

: a desktop computer

desktop

2 of 2 adjective

: of a size that is suitable for use on a desk or table

a desktop computer