desktop
gb/dˈɛsktˌɑp/ us/dˈɛsktˌɑp/
A2
English
~ 1700
Senses
0 senses
Noun
A2
entity
1
computer's main screen workspace
The main screen on a computer where you can see and open programs and files.
Usage pattern:
open [something] on the desktop
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'desktop' with 'laptop', which refers to a type of computer, not the screen area.
Synonyms
home screen (More common for smartphones and tablets; similar concept but different devices.)
Antonyms
application window (Refers to a program's active window rather than the main workspace area.)
Collocations
desktop background
|desktop icons
|desktop shortcut
|return to desktop
Themes
technology
|computing
|daily life
|work
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- I saved the document to my desktop for easy access.
- You can change the wallpaper from the desktop settings.
- Several new icons appeared on my desktop after installing the software.
- Click the minimize button to return to the desktop.
- Her desktop was cluttered with dozens of files.
Learner examples
- I put the file on my desktop.
- My desktop has many icons.
- I see a photo of a beach on my desktop.
- I open the game from my desktop.
Noun
A2
entity
2
personal computer for desk use
A computer that is made to stay on a desk and is not meant to be carried around.
Usage pattern:
buy a desktop
Common mistake:
Some learners think 'desktop' always means 'laptop' or any computer, but it specifically means a non-portable one.
Synonyms
workstation (Often refers to a more powerful desktop computer used for professional or technical work.)
Antonyms
laptop (A portable computer that can be used in many locations.)
Collocations
desktop computer
|desktop PC
|desktop model
Themes
technology
|computing
|work
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- I upgraded my old desktop to a faster model.
- Desktops usually have more storage space than laptops.
- The office ordered twenty new desktop computers for employees.
- His desktop runs on Windows 11.
- She prefers desktops for gaming because of their performance.
Learner examples
- I use a desktop at work.
- My desktop is faster than my laptop.
- We bought a new desktop for the office.
- The desktop is on my desk.
Noun
technical
B1
entity
3
PC version of software
A kind of program that is made to run on a computer, not on a phone or online only.
Synonyms
standalone application (A program that runs locally on a computer without requiring a web browser.)
Antonyms
mobile app (A program designed for smartphones or tablets instead of computers.)
Collocations
desktop app
|desktop version
|desktop client
Themes
technology
|software
|work
Examples
- The company released a new desktop version of its messaging app.
- You can download the desktop client from their website.
- This feature is only available in the desktop application.
- I prefer using the desktop version because it has more tools.
Learner examples
- I use the desktop app every day.
- The desktop version has more options.
- You can install the desktop client from the internet.
Grammar
Dictionary form
desktop
IPA
GB/dˈɛsktˌɑp/
US/dˈɛsktˌɑp/
Syllables & stress
desktop (1 syllable)
Stress on 1st syllable (desktop)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: desktop
- Plural: desktops
Word family
Forms
desktops
noun
Core family
desk
noun A1
Expressions
desktop publishing
1/dˈɛsktˌɑp pˈʌblɪʃɪŋ/
fixed phrase
technical
creating printed materials with PC software
Making things like books or flyers using your computer and special software.
Examples
- He took a course in desktop publishing.
- Desktop publishing has made it easier for small businesses to create brochures.
on the desktop
1/ˈɔn ðə dˈɛsktˌɑp/
fixed phrase
located on computer's main screen area
In the main screen area of your computer where you can see icons and files.
Examples
- The file is right there on the desktop.
- You can put shortcuts on the desktop for quick access.