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

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)