compiler

noun

com·​pil·​er kəm-ˈpī-lər How to pronounce compiler (audio)
1
: one that compiles
2
: a computer program that translates an entire set of instructions written in a higher-level symbolic language (such as C) into machine language before the instructions can be executed

Examples of compiler in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web All of this will need to be handled by Microsoft's compiler, which converts Q# code into hardware-specific commands that perform operations with qubits, whether that means moving ions or exposing the qubits to microwaves. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 10 Sep. 2024 There were game mechanics, of course, but 80s or 90s IF was more like writing poetry than programming an arcade game, even if a compiler was involved. Anna Washenko, Ars Technica, 20 June 2024 And, in the case of the C++ library used with the LLVM compiler, the code hasn't been touched in over a decade. Jon Brodkin, Ars Technica, 7 June 2023 The latest revision by global stock index compiler MSCI reflects the bullishness towards India. Diksha Madhok, CNN, 25 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for compiler 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'compiler.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of compiler was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near compiler

Cite this Entry

“Compiler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compiler. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

compiler

noun
com·​pil·​er kəm-ˈpī-lər How to pronounce compiler (audio)
1
: one that compiles
2
: a computer program that automatically translates an entire set of instructions written in a computer programming language (as BASIC) into machine language

More from Merriam-Webster on compiler

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