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.

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writing desk British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of writing desk

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

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

Mr. Zipperstein suggests that the real drama was not in the bedroom but at the writing desk, where Roth’s quarrels with himself became art.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 30, 2025

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

From Washington Times • Oct. 24, 2023

On recent afternoons, wearing jeans, slippers and a loose shirt, Roth came down from his writing desk and sat on the porch.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 19, 2023

So awed was I that it was a moment before my eyes fell on the figure at the writing desk, bent over some close task.

From "The Shakespeare Stealer" by Gary L. Blackwood