desktop

American  

[desk-top] / ˈdɛskˌtɒp /

adjective

1. small or compact enough to fit or be used on a desk.

   a desktop calendar.

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noun

1. the surface of a desk.

2. Computers.

   1. Also called desktop computer.  a computer that is not portable, often consisting of a CPU, monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

   2. the primary display screen of a graphical user interface, on which various icons represent files, groups of files, programs, or the like, which can be moved, accessed, added to, put away, or thrown away in ways analogous to the handling of file folders, documents, notes, etc., on a real desk.

desktop British  

/ ˈdɛskˌtɒp /

noun

1. the main screen display on a personal computer, from which windows may be opened and programs run

2. (modifier) denoting a computer system, esp for word processing, that is small enough to use at a desk

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Etymology

Origin of desktop

First recorded in 1925–30; desk + top ¹

Example Sentences

In fact, it was a remote desktop application that enabled Lam and his conspirators to transfer 4,000 bitcoins to themselves, Stratton said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

He narrowed the organizational focus to fit neatly inside a 2×2 grid—consumer and pro, desktop and laptop.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

Proton VPN maintains a consistent look across platforms, ensuring a familiar experience whether on mobile or desktop.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

"He set the account up live in front of me. I could actually see it being done on my desktop computer."

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

A desktop is a very interesting place, in case you’ve never explored one.

From "The World According to Humphrey" by Betty G. Birney