Desktop: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ’ป
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desktop

 

[ หˆdษ›skหŒtษ’p ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

computer

A desktop is a computer system that is designed to be used in a fixed location, typically on a desk or table. It consists of a monitor, keyboard, and CPU housed in a single unit. Desktop computers are often used for tasks that require more processing power or storage capacity than a laptop or tablet.

Synonyms

PC, desktop computer, workstation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
desktop

Use 'desktop' when referring to the main graphical interface of a computer's operating system or the physical surface of a desk where a computer is placed.

  • I have too many icons cluttering my desktop.
  • She put her laptop on the desktop.
desktop computer

Use 'desktop computer' specifically to describe a personal computer that is designed to be situated on a desk and is not portable.

  • I bought a new desktop computer for my home office.
  • Desktop computers are often used in workplaces for their reliability.
PC

Use 'PC' as an abbreviation for 'personal computer', generally referring to computers running a Windows operating system, but can also broadly mean any non-Mac computer.

  • He prefers gaming on a PC because of the better hardware options.
  • You can install the software on any PC.
workstation

Use 'workstation' to describe a high-performance computer designed for technical or scientific applications, often used by professionals like engineers, graphic designers, or scientists.

  • The graphic designer upgraded to a powerful workstation for rendering 3D models.
  • Workstations are commonly used for tasks that require significant computing power.

Examples of usage

  • A desktop computer is perfect for gaming enthusiasts.
  • I prefer using a desktop for my graphic design work.
  • She has a desktop in her home office for work.
Context #2 | Noun

furniture

A desktop is a surface or table that provides a work area, especially in an office or study. It is typically used for placing a computer, paperwork, or other items for work or study purposes.

Synonyms

desk, table, work surface.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
desktop

Can also mean a computer that is designed to be used on a desk, typically larger than a laptop.

  • I prefer using a desktop for graphic design because of the larger screen.
  • The office provided each employee with a desktop computer.
desk

A piece of furniture with a flat surface used for reading, writing, or working, typically featuring drawers and compartments.

  • He sat at his desk to finish his homework.
  • She has a beautifully organized desk in her home office.
work surface

A general term for any flat area used for work-related tasks, such as a kitchen counter, office desk, or workbench.

  • The work surface in the lab was cluttered with equipment.
  • Make sure to clean your work surface after cooking.
table

A piece of furniture with a flat surface supported by legs, used for placing items or for eating, writing, and working.

  • The family gathered around the dining table.
  • She placed her books on the table to study.

Examples of usage

  • Her desk is cluttered with papers and books.
  • He sat at the desktop, typing away on his laptop.
  • The desktop in the office is made of solid oak.

Translations

Translations of the word "desktop" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น desktop

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคกเฅ‡เคธเฅเค•เคŸเฅ‰เคช

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Desktop

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ desktop

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ั€ะพะฑะพั‡ะธะน ัั‚ั–ะป

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ pulpit

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒ‡ใ‚นใ‚ฏใƒˆใƒƒใƒ—

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท bureau

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ escritorio

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท masaรผstรผ

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋ฐ์Šคํฌํƒ‘

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุณุทุญ ุงู„ู…ูƒุชุจ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ plocha

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ pracovnรก plocha

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆกŒ้ข

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ namizje

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ skjรกborรฐ

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ าฏัั‚ะตะป าฏัั‚ั–

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ“แƒ”แƒกแƒ™แƒขแƒแƒžแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ masaรผstรผ

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ escritorio

Etymology

The term 'desktop' originated in the late 19th century, combining 'desk' and 'top' to refer to the top surface of a desk. With the advancement of technology, 'desktop' evolved to also represent a computer system designed for use on a desk. The concept of a fixed computer system in a stationary location led to the development of desktop computers as we know them today.

See also: desk.