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 digital version of Disney Lorcana TCG will be playable on desktop and mobile. — Tanya Fedak, Variety, 18 Aug. 2026

Access files through a desktop client, web app, WebDAV, or command-line interface. — Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 17 Aug. 2026

Adjective

Many people who are attempting to cut back on their Instagram use remove the app from their phone and use only the desktop-computer version, which is clunkier and less comfortable to scroll through for hours. — Kaitlyn Tiffany, The Atlantic, 2 Aug. 2026

Apple iPad Mini Deal The Apple iPad Mini (A17 Pro) forces desktop-class processing power into an ultraportable form factor by combining the advanced A17 Pro processor with local Apple Intelligence generation tools. — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 3 July 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