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

Intel made a big push to boost efficiency after its 14th-generation desktop chips, which were known for drawing a lot of power and easily hitting thermal limits. — Jon Martindale, PC Magazine, 2 Oct. 2026

But the headliner of the event was Dots, a new desktop agent product that competes directly with Meta’s recently released Muse virtual assistant. — Alexei Oreskovic, Fortune, 30 Sep. 2026

Adjective

The chip has two desktop-class super cores that operate 20% faster than those within the current iPhone 17 Pro. — Greta Cross, USA Today, 9 Sep. 2026

For anyone who wants desktop-level performance without buying new, this refurbished iPad Pro is worth a look. — Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026

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