A desk is a common piece of furniture in offices, classrooms and homes. It usually has a flat surface used for reading, writing, or working on a computer. However, there are several other words you can use to describe a desk, depending on its design or purpose. For instance, a workstation, worktable, or workbench may convey a particular type of practical desk used for specialized tasks. Similarly, a lectern, podium, or rostrum is essentially a standing desk used for lectures or presentations. An escritoire, secretaire, or bureau, on the other hand, are more ornate desks with drawers and compartments for storing letters, papers or other items.