Desk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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desk
[desk /desk ]
Definitions
office furniture
A piece of furniture with a flat or sloped surface for writing, reading, or working on a computer.
Synonyms
table, workstation, writing table.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| desk |
A flat surface typically found in offices, schools, or homes used for working, studying, or writing.
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| table |
A piece of furniture with a flat top and legs, used for various activities such as eating, working, or playing games. It is more general and can be used in many contexts.
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| workstation |
A designated area equipped with necessary tools and equipment for working, often used in offices or for specialized tasks. This term is more technical and work-focused.
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| writing table |
A specific type of desk designed primarily for writing, often with drawers or other features to store writing materials.
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Examples of usage
- He sat at his desk and started working on the report.
- The desk in the office is made of oak wood.
reception area
A counter or table at which a receptionist or clerk works.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| desk |
A 'desk' is typically used in offices, schools, and homes for working, studying, or any task requiring a flat surface. It usually refers to a piece of furniture.
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| counter |
A 'counter' is often found in kitchens, restaurants, and shops. It refers to a flat surface where transactions take place or where items are prepared and served.
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| reception |
Reception usually refers to the area or desk at the entrance of a hotel, office, or other establishment where guests are greeted and assisted. It can also refer to a formal event, such as a wedding reception.
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| checkout |
The term 'checkout' is commonly used in stores and supermarkets where customers go to pay for their items. It can also refer to the process or location in a hotel where guests settle their bill and leave.
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Examples of usage
- The receptionist greeted visitors from behind the desk.
- There was a sign-in sheet on the desk in the lobby.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Desks are central to many modern workplaces, symbolizing productivity and organization in both educational and professional settings.
- In Japanese culture, traditional study desks called 'tansu' used to be crafted with aesthetics and functionality, blending beauty with utility.
- In many cultures, the design of a desk can reflect social status, with ornate desks often belonging to wealthy individuals or high-ranking officials.
Psychology
- A clean and organized desk can significantly enhance focus and reduce stress, improving overall productivity by creating a welcoming work environment.
- Research has shown that personalizing your desk with photos or decorations can increase job satisfaction and creativity.
- The concept of 'Deskercise' highlights the importance of incorporating physical movement during desk work to combat the health risks associated with prolonged sitting.
Historical Use
- Originally, desks were used primarily for writing letters, as it was a primary form of communication before the digital age.
- The 'secretary desk,' featuring a hinged top for writing, became popular in the 18th century, serving as both a writing desk and a storage unit.
- In the 20th century, the introduction of office cubicles transformed traditional desk use, revolutionizing workspaces to be more efficient and collaborative.
Origin of 'desk'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Old French 'deske,' meaning 'table' or 'desk,' which traces back to the Latin 'desca,' meaning 'table to eat from.'
- Interestingly, the term 'desk' has been in use since the 14th century in English, evolving from designs meant for writing.
- In the context of furniture, desks became popular in Europe during the Renaissance, reflecting the era’s emphasis on education.
The word 'desk' originated from the Latin word 'discus', meaning 'disc' or 'table'. It has evolved over time to refer to a piece of furniture with a flat surface for various tasks. Desks have been used for centuries as a practical and essential piece of furniture in offices, homes, and other settings.
See also: desktop.