When discussing a computer, a desktop is known as the initial screen showing icons for folders, applications, and files. This is typically what appears when a computer is first turned on and serves as the background behind all other applications.
Many times people store shortcuts here, save files directly to the desktop, or organize applications or files into folders. The desktop is usually easy to navigate to and identify items on. The desktop displays on the monitor, and is typically controlled by the user using the keyboard and mouse by typing or clicking.