writing-desk
Definition
- Noun:
- A writing-desk is a piece of furniture with a flat or sloping surface designed specifically for writing, often equipped with drawers or compartments for storing stationery, paper, and writing instruments.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- She placed her notebook and pen on the writing-desk before starting her letter. (A flat surface used for writing tasks.)
- The antique writing-desk in the study has a secret compartment for letters. (A piece of furniture with storage features for writing materials.)
Advanced Usage
- "writing-desk" can be used metaphorically to refer to a workspace or the act of writing itself.
- After hours at the writing-desk, his hand was cramping from composing the essay. (The physical location or activity of writing.)
Variants and Related Words
Desk (n): a broader term for a piece of furniture with a flat surface used for reading, writing, or working, which may or may not be specifically for writing.
- The general desk in the office was cluttered with papers. (A work surface, not necessarily specialized for writing.)
Writing-table (n): a synonym for writing-desk, often implying a table-like design without a slanted top.
- She preferred the writing-table because it offered more space for her books. (A flat table used for writing.)
Synonyms
- Secretary: a writing-desk with a hinged top that folds down to form a writing surface, often with drawers and compartments.
- Bureau: a writing-desk with drawers, sometimes with a sloping top that opens to reveal compartments.
- Escritoire: a type of writing-desk with a slanted top that opens to reveal a writing surface and storage.
Related Idioms
At one's writing-desk: engaged in writing or paperwork.
- He spent the morning at his writing-desk, finishing the report. (Actively writing or working on documents.)
Clean one's writing-desk: to organize or tidy up one's workspace.
- Before starting the new project, she decided to clean her writing-desk. (To prepare the workspace for efficient work.)