Desktop

Each GUI operating system has a desktop. This is the area where various shortcuts or files can be stored for easy access by the user. Some examples of operating systems that include desktops are:

Some versions of Linux
Windows operating systems
Macintosh operating systems

See : Graphical desktop environment.

The computer term Desktop originally came from the area on an actual Desk where most of the work is done. The top of a desk can support various objects, including:

Pen holders
Computer monitors
Computer peripherals
The top of a desk is easy to write on
Calendars
Misc. objects (including coffee cups, Kleenex and computer mice)
Models of ships, airplanes, human skulls, etc. etc; often referred to as desktop model(s)