1 desk | Definition of desk
Logo
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

desk

noun
\ ˈdesk How to pronounce desk (audio) \

Definition of desk

1a : a table, frame, or case with a sloping or horizontal surface especially for writing and reading and often with drawers, compartments, and pigeonholes
b : a reading table or lectern from which a liturgical service is read
c : a table, counter, stand, or booth at which a person works
2a : a division of an organization specializing in a particular phase of activity the Russian desk in the Department of State
b : a seating position according to rank in an orchestra a first-desk violinist
Synonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about desk

Keep scrolling for more

Examples of desk in a Sentence

an information desk at an airport We will ask for directions to the restaurant at the front desk. We went to the reception desk to check into our room.
See More

Recent Examples on the Web

 Mr Macron, who keeps a copy of Charles de Gaulle’s memoirs on his desk, is eager to occupy the space. — The Economist, "Emmanuel Macron reclaims France’s international role," 31 Aug. 2019 On his desk is a small statue of Jesus, identifiable only by the holes in his hands and feet, faceless under a blanket. — Jamie Swinnerton, Houston Chronicle, "Rev. Randall Trego leads with listening as director of spiritual care for Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital," 30 Aug. 2019 Here are some of the more interesting events, deals, websites and other travel tidbits that have come across our desk recently: ·Native American culture will be on view Sept. 7-8 during the Andersontown Powwow and Indian Market in Anderson, Ind. — Phil Marty, chicagotribune.com, "Dive into Native American culture in Indiana, enjoy some pampering with a Packers game and more Midwest events," 30 Aug. 2019 In these situations, the minimal amount of caffeine in decaf could be just enough to get yourself through the day without face-planting on your desk. — Carolyn L. Todd, SELF, "Turns Out Decaf Coffee Has Caffeine, Which Feels Like a Betrayal," 29 Aug. 2019 When anything Fenty Beauty drops, there's a palpable buzz in the office, and the team swarms my desk in order to get a peek at the newest product Rihanna has blessed us with. — Glamour, "7 Women Try Fenty Beauty's New Eyebrow Pencils," 29 Aug. 2019 Take, for example, the experience of color—say, the bright red of the coffee mug on my desk. — Anil K. Seth, Scientific American, "The Neuroscience of Reality," 27 Aug. 2019 Even the most well-meaning book editor — laden as our desks are with piles of potential — can miss something every now and again. — Seija Rankin, EW.com, "How Elizabeth Ames wrote The Other's Gold, your new favorite campus novel," 27 Aug. 2019 Davis's personal effects still dot his desk, his art still lines the walls, his books—mostly covering football and the Brooklyn Dodgers—still occupy the shelves. — Jon Wertheim, SI.com, "How the Influence of Al Davis Shaped the Modern NFL," 27 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'desk.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

See More

First Known Use of desk

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

History and Etymology for desk

Middle English deske, from Medieval Latin desca, modification of Old Italian desco table, from Latin discus dish, disc — more at dish

Keep scrolling for more

Keep scrolling for more

More Definitions for desk

desk

noun
How to pronounce desk (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of desk

: a piece of furniture that is like a table and often has drawers
: a place where people can get information or be served at an office, a hotel, etc.
: the part of a company or organization that deals with a particular subject

See the full definition for desk in the English Language Learners Dictionary

desk

noun
\ ˈdesk How to pronounce desk (audio) \

Kids Definition of desk

1 : a piece of furniture with a flat or sloping surface for use in writing or reading
2 : a counter at which a person works especially to help customers

Keep scrolling for more

More from Merriam-Webster on desk

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for desk

Spanish Central: Translation of desk

Nglish: Translation of desk for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of desk for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about desk

WORD OF THE DAY

See Definitions and Examples

Get Word of the Day daily email!