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
: 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
PCMAG, 5 June 2024
As of today, the new password sharing feature works on mobile — but apparently not via Chrome on desktop, yet.
—Umar Shakir, The Verge, 23 May 2024
PCMAG, 6 Feb. 2024
Making matters worse, fewer people have this hardware due to the general shift from desktop computers to laptops.
—Andy Patrizio, Ars Technica, 11 July 2023
See all Example Sentences for desktop 
Noun
Available on desktops, mobile devices, smart TVs, and the web, the platform has a deep video well, numerous podcasts, and informative channels that can teach you about music history.
—PCMAG, 5 June 2024
As of today, the new password sharing feature works on mobile — but apparently not via Chrome on desktop, yet.
—Umar Shakir, The Verge, 23 May 2024
Adjective
There are also desktop clients for Linux, Mac, and Windows, plus apps for Android and iOS.
—PCMAG, 6 Feb. 2024
Making matters worse, fewer people have this hardware due to the general shift from desktop computers to laptops.
—Andy Patrizio, Ars Technica, 11 July 2023
See all Example Sentences for desktop
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'desktop.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near desktop
Cite this Entry
“Desktop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/desktop. Accessed 9 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationKids 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
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