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Synonyms

writing desk

American  

noun

  1. a piece of furniture with a surface for writing, with drawers and pigeonholes for writing materials.

  2. a portable case that when opened forms a surface on which to write.


writing desk British  

noun

  1. a piece of furniture with a writing surface and drawers and compartments for papers, writing materials, etc

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of writing desk

First recorded in 1605–15


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

If you’ve ever daydreamed about owning an item from Carrie Bradshaw’s closet or the writing desk where she penned her famous memoir, this L.A. event may be your golden ticket.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 28, 2026

In sculpting the organ, Elphick takes artistic licence and morphs the instrument with Jones's writing desk, bringing to life aspects of his multi-faceted career and to reflect his interests beyond Python.

From BBC ● Oct. 30, 2025

Nevertheless, some family possessions survive and are exhibited here: a lovely walnut writing desk used by Otto Frank, table linens with family initials, colorful crockery, a precious photo album.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 25, 2025

As an official gift, the Bidens gave their guests an antique writing desk.

From Washington Times ● Oct. 24, 2023

Opposite them, near the center of the room, was a writing desk.

From "The Reader" by Traci Chee

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