Desk: Definition, Examples, and Usage Tips

Meaning 1：writing table (desk)

desk 🔊

/dɛsk/

A piece of furniture like a table, often with drawers, where people sit to write, work, or use a computer.

Desk with laptop and notebook in a calm study room

writing table 🔊

➕

/ˈraɪtɪŋ ˈteɪbəl/

A desk is a piece of furniture with a flat surface, often with drawers, used for writing, reading, or working on a computer.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'desca' (table), ultimately from Greek 'diskos' (disk).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'D-E-S-K' as 'Doing Every Sort of Knowledge' — a place where all learning happens.

📖 Example

Every morning, she enjoys a cup of tea at her desk while planning the day's tasks. 🔊 Every morning, she enjoys a cup of tea at her desk while planning the day's tasks.

🔗 Collocations

at one's desk – Working or studying at the place where one's desk is located.

desk job – A job that involves sitting at a desk, typically in an office.

desk drawer – A drawer built into a desk for storing items.

🔄 Synonyms

table (n.) – A piece of furniture with a flat top and legs, used for eating, writing, or working.

workstation (n.) – An area designed for work, typically equipped with a desk, computer, and other tools.

counter (n.) – A long flat surface, especially in a shop or kitchen, for serving or working on.

🌱 Derivatives

desktop (n.) – The top surface of a desk; also refers to a computer's main screen workspace.

deskbound (adj.) – Confined to a desk for work; involving little physical activity.

deskwork (n.) – Work performed while sitting at a desk, such as paperwork or computer tasks.

📖 Cultural Story

Entered English in 14th century from medieval Latin 'desca', referring to a portable writing chest. Today, the desk is a universal symbol of work and study in offices, schools, and homes.