roll top
- a flexible, sliding cover for the working area of a desk, opening by rising upward and back in quadrantal grooves and rolling up beneath the top.
- Also called roll-top desk, rolltop desk. a desk with such a cover.
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Origin of roll top
An Americanism dating back to 1885–90
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for roll top
Historical Examples
A roll-top desk in the corner and three chairs were the furniture.
Cap'n Warren's WardsJoseph C. Lincoln
With his back to Carl, the dean was writing at a roll-top desk.
The Trail of the HawkSinclair Lewis
On the roll-top of his desk he kept a letter spread out in front of him.
Sally of MissouriR. E. Young
A man was seated in a swivel chair before the roll-top desk.
Find the WomanArthur Somers Roche
Over the roll-top desk was the only electric light that was switched on.
A Sub and a SubmarinePercy F. Westerman