The desk was covered in papers.
Meaning: This means that the desk was completely covered with papers, making it difficult to see the surface of the desk.
Choice of Words: Desk is a piece of furniture with a flat top and drawers that is used for writing or working. Covered means to be completely hidden or concealed by something. In indicates the location of something inside something else. Papers are thin sheets of material used for writing or printing on. This sentence describes the state of a desk that is completely hidden or concealed by papers.
Alternative Expressions
Related Expressions