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

This can be accessed by tapping the Alexa icon in the Amazon Shopping app or find Alexa for Shopping at the top of your screen on desktop. — Roy Stephen Canivel, Footwear News, 6 Nov. 2026

More recently, Alpine has been adopted for use in desktops and servers. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 5 Nov. 2026

Adjective

Some of Microsoft's earlier desktop-replacement systems, such as the Surface Laptop Studio 2, were notable for their dual-position displays that brought some of that tablet capability to a closer-to-clamshell design. — Brian Westover, PC Magazine, 4 Nov. 2026

The Fold 8 supports Samsung DeX, too, giving you a desktop-style experience when connected to compatible external displays. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 3 Nov. 2026

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

Rhymes for desktop

• atop
• backdrop
• backstop
• bebop
• blacktop
• bookshop
• clatsop
• eavesdrop
• estop
• hardtop
• hilltop
• laptop

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