The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (30 December 2018):
docking station
A desktop mains powered unit into which a
laptop or other portable computer can be connected via fixed
connectors at the rear of the computer to provide quick and
convenient connection of peripherals not normally used with
a laptop. These can include power supply, expansion cards,
additional storage, an external monitor, network card,
CD-ROM, full-size keyboard, printer, and mouse. The
alternative would require each of the above to be connected to
the laptop individually.
(2000-04-10)