desk

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A table, frame, or case, in past centuries usually with a sloping top but now usually with a flat top, for the use of writers and readers. It often has a drawer or repository underneath.

   She organized her notes neatly on her desk before starting the project.

2. 2
   noun

   A department tasked with a particular topic or focus in certain types of businesses, such as newspapers and financial trading firms.

   the city desk, the sports desk

3. 3
   noun

   Ellipsis of mixing desk.

   Each aux out is connected to an effects unit and the signal is then returned into the desk.

4. 4
   noun

   A station for a string player in an orchestra, consisting of a chair and a music stand, or a row of such stations.

   The first four desks of cellos play separate parts, making a lush, Impressionist harmony.

5. 5
   verb

   To equip with a desk or desks.

   But also that the said Chapell be desked, and the windowes of our said Chapell be glased, with Stores, Ymagies, Armes, Bagies ami Cognossaunts, as is by us redily divised, and in picture delivered to the Priour of Saunt Bartilmews besid Smythfel, maistre of the works of our said Chapell;

6. 6
   noun

   a piece of furniture with a writing surface and usually drawers or other compartments

7. 7
   noun

   A reading table or lectern to support the book from which the liturgical service is read, differing from the pulpit from which the sermon is preached; also (especially in the United States), a pulpit. Hence, used symbolically for the clerical profession.

8. 8
   verb

   To shut up, as in a desk; to treasure.

Etymology

From Middle English deske, desque, from Medieval Latin desca, modified from Old Italian desco, from Latin discus. Doublet of dais, disc, discus, dish, disk, and diskos. See also German Tisch, "table".