portable desk

Lap writing surface

A portable desk is a compact writing surface designed to be carried and used in various locations.

Historically, it referred to a hinged box with storage for writing implements and a sloped lid for writing—what might now be called a lap desk or writing slope.

Modern portable desks range from folding laptop stands to lightweight surfaces that rest on the lap or bed: She set up her portable desk on the train.

Related
  • laptopPortable hinged computer
  • foldingBending something over itself
  • fold upMake compact by creasing
  • trayShallow portable platform
  • writingRecorded language on surface

writing surface · compact · lightweight · travel · on the go · train table · workspace · surface · adjustable · wooden · stand · mobile · briefcase · lapdesk · lap tray · collapsible · student · clipboard

Opposites
mobility/permanence

portable deskexecutive desk

Large formal office furniture

workbench · drafting table · conference table · L-shaped desk

scale/substantiality

portable deskexecutive desk

Large formal office furniture

roll-top desk · pedestal desk · L-shaped desk · corner desk · secretary desk

Family

portable, desk, port, porter, portage, portability, portal, portfolio, transport

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G