ENGLISH
REFERENCE

desktop

n. countable
C1 Advanced Oxford US //ˈdɛskˌtɑp// UK //dˈɛsktɒp// desk·top

n. the main screen area you see on a computer after you log in. It is also a type of computer that stays on a desk rather than being portable like a laptop.

n. the primary display area of a graphical user interface, designed to represent a desk surface where documents and applications are placed. Also refers to a non-portable personal computer designed for regular use at a fixed location.


SIMPLE

I keep my most important files on my desktop for quick access.

CONTEXTUAL

After the update, several new icons appeared on my desktop and the background image changed.

COMPLEX

While mobile devices are sufficient for casual browsing, professional video editors often require the superior processing power and thermal management of a high-end desktop.

Synonyms
Origin

From desk + top.

Usage

Often used as an attributive noun to modify other nouns, such as 'desktop computer' or 'desktop publishing'.

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