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Meaning & use

desktop

noun, adjective·Everydaycomputing

Last updated

UK/ˈdesktɒp/
US/ˈdesktɑːp/

Meanings

  1. nouncountablecomputing

    The main screen of a computer where icons, files, and open windows appear.

    Grammar: Usually singular with the: save it to the desktop.

    Patterns

    • on the desktop
    • save something to the desktop

    She dragged the file onto her desktop.

    My desktop is covered with icons.

    Change your desktop background to a picture you like.

  2. nouncountablecomputing

    A personal computer built to stay on a desk, as opposed to a laptop.

    Grammar: Countable: office desktops.

    Patterns

    • a desktop computer

    He bought a desktop for gaming at home.

    The school replaced its old desktops with new ones.

    A desktop is easier to upgrade than a laptop.

  3. adjectivebefore a nouncomputing

    Designed to be used on a desk or on a standard computer rather than a phone.

    Grammar: Used before a noun: the desktop version.

    Patterns

    • the desktop version
    • a desktop app

    The desktop version of the site has more features.

    This desktop app runs on both Windows and Mac.

    A desktop printer fits on a small table.

  4. nouncountablerare

    The top surface of a desk.

    Grammar: Less common sense; refers to the physical surface.

    Patterns

    • on the desktop

    He wiped the desktop clean.

    A pen rolled across the desktop.

    The oak desktop was scratched.

Word forms

pluraldesktops

Common combinations

desktop computer
The desktop computer hummed under the table.
desktop background
Her desktop background is a photo of the sea.
desktop version
The desktop version loads faster.
desktop publishing
She works in desktop publishing.
desktop icon
Double-click the desktop icon to start.

Synonyms and how they differ

PC
PC is a general term for a personal computer and may be a laptop, but desktop names a stationary one.
workstation
Workstation suggests a more powerful machine used for professional tasks.
home screen
Home screen is the usual term on phones, while desktop is for computers.

Opposites

laptopmobile

Word family

laptop noun
a portable computer
desk noun
a table for working at
top noun
the upper surface
tabletop noun
the flat upper surface of a table

Commonly confused: desktop or laptop?

desktop vs laptop

A laptop is portable and has a built-in screen and battery. A desktop stays in one place on a desk.

Practice

Which sentence uses desktop to mean the computer screen background?

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