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

According to a September 2024 study by Semrush, 80% of desktop searches and 76% of mobile searches that triggered AI Overviews had informational intent. —Vaibhav Kakkar, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025

Here's how to do it: Log in to Yahoo Mail on your desktop browser (auto-forwarding can't be set up via the mobile app). —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 11 Aug. 2025

Adjective

Framework is finally entering the desktop PC space; the same DIY space that inspired Framework Laptops to begin with. —Jason Evangelho, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2025

While that weight is fine for a desktop replacement laptop, picking it up in tablet mode is like hefting an anchor. —Brian Westover, PC Magazine, 17 July 2025

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