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desktop

desktop

95 3.5
A computer screen you use over the internet with your apps and files
  • noun
  • /ˈdɛsktɒp/
  • Specialized
translation icon : escritorio virtual
  • The benefits were greater in the acoustically poor environment, and the desktop amplification system provided more benefit than the wall-mounted system.
  • desktop environment
  • desktop applications
  • desktop user

And obviously you can virtual desktop on the Quest.

Examples

  • The new software allows users to access their desktop from any device with an internet connection.

  • To be truly useful, the model must be capable of being used in a desktop computing environment.

    Academic text (1994)
  • "But as computation power grew, we can now solve these kinds of problems on the desktop," he added.

    Academic text (2009)
  • There are two documents open on the desktop: the original RGB image and the CMYK copy.

    Academic text (2009)
  • Powerful image measuring and processing tools are also readily available on desktop workstations.

    Academic text (1997)
  • Irene's husband is an avid computer user whose interests are desktop publishing and telecommunications.

    Academic text (1993)
  • "Bloove and Memotoo are examples of cloud-based mobile phone/desktop synchronization tools."

    Academic text (2011)
  • You can organize your files and applications on your desktop just like on a physical computer.

  • After logging into the cloud service, I saw all my documents appear on the desktop interface.

Synonyms

workstation
vsdesktop
  • Specialized
1 4.1

A virtual desktop in the cloud that gives computer power you can use remotely

emphasizes a familiar local user interface and direct access to personal files

Compounds

A computer for use at a desk with a separate screen, keyboard, and mouse

desktop publishing
  • Specialized
3 3.7

Making printed items like brochures and newsletters on a computer with special software

How Graphical

graphical
11 4.0
desktop
  • Specialized
95 3.5
command line
  • Specialized
8 4.8
headless
  • Specialized
1 6.8

Surface Forms

desktop singular
desktops plural

Morphology

desktop = desk + top (semi-transparent) = desk + top

A remote or virtual 'desktop' is an extension of the desktop metaphor; the parts signal a surface or workspace but the implementation is technical and non-literal.

Etymology

Desktop was later used for a digital or remote work surface, based on desk and top. A helpful way to remember this is that a virtual desktop is like the 'top of your desk' living on another computer or in the cloud, so you can open your apps and files from anywhere.