desktop

1 of 2

noun

desk·​top ˈdesk-ˌtäp How to pronounce desktop (audio)
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
Multi-monitor support is more important than 3D performance in this class of desktop. PCMAG, 25 Apr. 2024 Rabbit is also working on an AI-native desktop operating system called Rabbit OS that puts its personal voice assistant front and center. Julian Chokkattu, WIRED, 24 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for desktop 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'desktop.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1925, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of desktop was in 1925

Dictionary Entries Near desktop

Cite this Entry

“Desktop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/desktop. Accessed 5 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

desktop

1 of 2 noun
desk·​top ˈdesk-ˌtäp How to pronounce desktop (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on desktop

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