desktop meaning: definition, etymology and quotations

desktop

noun

UK [ˈdɛskˌtɒp] · US [ˈdɛskˌtɑp]

Etymology From desk + top.

The top surface of a desk.

Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Natural sciences, Physical sciences, Sciences A desktop computer.

Laptops are often more expensive than desktops.

Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Natural sciences, Physical sciences, Sciences A personal computer, as opposed to computers for business or server purposes.

Computing, Engineering, Graphical user interface, Mathematics, Natural sciences, Physical sciences, Sciences The main graphical user interface of an operating system, usually displaying icons, windows and background wallpaper.

I installed a new application and it added its icon to my desktop.
Important menus, such as the root menu or Workspace menu, are "pinnable," which means that you can pin them up and keep them on your desktop […]1994, Linda Mui, Valerie Quercia, X User Tools, page 312:

Computing, Engineering, Graphical user interface, Mathematics, Natural sciences, Physical sciences, Sciences The wallpaper of this interface.

For quotations using this term, see Citations:desktop.

Derived terms: crash-to-desktop, crash to desktop, deskbar, desknote, desktop calendar, desktop mascot, desktop organiser, desktop organizer, desktop picture, desktop publisher, desktop publishing, multidesktop, nettop, nondesktop, personal online desktop, remote desktop, virtual desktop, webtop

desktop

adj

Etymology From desk + top.

Designed for use on a desk or similar piece of furniture.

Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Natural sciences, Physical sciences, Sciences Of an application or website, designed to be run or viewed on a personal computer.

desktop browser

Derived terms: desktop accessory, desktop computer, desktop environment, desktop mascot, desktop metaphor, desktop publishing, desktop toy