Meaning & Definition of word "Desk"

Desk

/dɛsk/

noun:

  • 1. A piece of furniture with a flat or sloped surface for working at, usually with drawers for storage.
    • Example: She placed her laptop on the desk to start working.
  • 2. An office or workspace designated for a particular person or purpose.
    • Example: The manager's desk was cluttered with papers and files.
  • 3. A counter or table in a public place, often for information or assistance.
    • Example: He approached the reception desk to check in for his appointment.

Etymology

Middle French 'desque', from Latin 'desca', from 'de' + 'scabere' (to write).

Common Phrases and Expressions

desk job:

A job that is performed mainly while sitting at a desk, rather than in a more active environment.

news desk:

A specific place in a newsroom where the news is gathered and organized.

front desk:

The reception area in an establishment where guests or clients are received.

Related Words

workstation:

An area equipped for a specific task or job.

bureau:

An office or organization; also, a type of desk.

table:

A piece of furniture with a flat surface for working or dining.

Slang Meanings of desk

Meaning: Desk jockey

Example Sentence: He’s a desk jockey, spending all his time in front of a computer.

Meaning: Desk duty

Example Sentence: After the incident, he was assigned desk duty as a punishment.