As a noun, a desktop is the top surface of a desk or the main screen area on a computer where icons and windows appear. As an adjective, it describes computers or software designed to be used on a desk rather than handheld.
Formed from "desk" + "top," originally meaning the upper surface of a desk. In the late 20th century, it was borrowed into computing to describe the computer’s main working screen, modeled on a real desk.
Your computer’s "desktop" is a direct metaphor from physical desks—files, folders, and trash cans were copied into the digital world. The whole idea of a graphical interface is basically a virtual office built out of icons.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.