Desk — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈdesk/

Meaning & Definition of Desk

Desk (noun)

  1. a table, frame, or case with a sloping or horizontal surface especially for writing and reading and often with drawers, compartments, and pigeonholes
  2. a reading table or lectern from which a liturgical service is read
  3. a table, counter, stand, or booth at which a person works; especially, such a place where people can be served or get help or information

Desk (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a large unit of a governmental, business, or educational organization

    "the city desk of a prominent newspaper"

    similar: agency, arm, branch, bureau, department, division, office, service
    related: subdepartment, subdivision

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Desk

The most common words with a similar meaning to Desk:

agency, arm, branch, bureau, department, division, office, service

Related Words for Desk

subdepartment, subdivision

Origin & Etymology of Desk

Middle English deske, dext "reading desk, lectern," borrowed from Medieval Latin descus, desca, variant of discus "raised table, platform," going back to Latin, "discus, kind of plate, gong," borrowed from Greek dískos "discus," in Late Greek also "dish, round mirror, the sun's disk, gong" discus

First known use: 14th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Desk

Words & Phrases Containing Desk

desk jockey, desk job, help desk, partners desk, reading desk, rolltop desk, standing desk, writing desk, cash desk

Frequently Asked Questions about Desk

What does "Desk" mean?

"Desk" means a table, frame, or case with a sloping or horizontal surface especially for writing and reading and often with drawers, compartments, and pigeonholes. As a noun, it is defined as: a table, frame, or case with a sloping or horizontal surface especially for writing and reading and often with drawers, compartments, and pigeonholes.

What is another word for "Desk"?

Other words for "Desk" include agency, arm, branch, bureau, department, division, office and service. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Desk" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Desk"?

There are 10 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Desk". Common alternatives include agency, arm, branch, bureau, department, division, office and service.

How do you use "Desk" in a sentence?

Examples of "Desk" in a sentence: "the city desk of a prominent newspaper".

Is "Desk" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Desk" is a noun.

Is "Desk" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As an A1-level word, "Desk" is typical of Cambridge A1 Movers (Young Learners), TOEIC Listening & Reading 120+.

How do you pronounce "Desk"?

"Desk" is pronounced /ˈdesk/.

What is the origin of the word "Desk"?

"Desk" comes from Middle English deske, dext "reading desk, lectern," borrowed from Medieval Latin descus, desca, variant of discus "raised table, platform," going back to Latin, "discus, kind of plate, gong," borrowed from Greek dískos "discus," in Late Greek also "dish, round mirror, the sun's disk, gong" discus. First known use: 14th century.