compiler

noun

com·​pil·​er kəm-ˈpī-lər 

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

The compiler once opened programming to a new class of builders. —Richie Etwaru, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025

The result, the Electron E1 and its accompanying compiler, is now heading to developers and early partners. —IEEE Spectrum, 24 July 2025

Savvy developers pointed me to a function that forces the compiler to store data in the much more expansive flash memory (intended for storing programs) rather than in the Uno’s RAM. —IEEE Spectrum, 23 Dec. 2015

The report’s compilers asked for data about the education background of senior level staff while speaking with experts and academics for anecdotal and evidence-based insight. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 13 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for compiler

• profiler
• filer
• pilar
• theiler

Kids Definition

compiler

noun

com·​pil·​er kəm-ˈpī-lər 

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