Definition

A piece of furniture designed for writing, typically featuring a flat surface and often with compartments for storing writing materials.

Example

She sat at her escritoire, carefully writing her letters.

Conversation

I just bought a beautiful escritoire for my study.

That sounds lovely! What does it look like?

It's got a nice top section for books and a classic design.

I bet it will make your study feel so much more inviting!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Escritoire comes from the French word 'escrire' (meaning to write) and the suffix '-oire' (indicating a place or object associated with a specific function). Thus, an 'escritoire' is a piece of furniture designed for writing.

Memory Tip

Think of 'writing' ('escrire') and a place to do it ('-oire') — that's why an 'escritoire' is a writing desk.

Visually Confused Words