noun

compiler

/kəmˈpaɪlər/ · say it: kuhm·PY·ler

a program that translates code into machine language

In more detail

1. (noun) a computer program that translates code written in a programming language into machine code that a computer can execute

2. (noun) a person who compiles or collects information from different sources

Examples

1. The Java compiler converts your source code into bytecode.
2. The editor served as a compiler of historical documents from various archives.

How to use compiler

In computing, a compiler is a specialized tool that converts entire programs written in high-level languages into executable machine code before runtime. It differs from an interpreter, which translates and executes code line-by-line. The term also applies generally to anyone who gathers and organizes information from multiple sources, though this usage is less common in modern English.

Common phrases

compile code
compiler error
C compiler
Java compiler
compiler optimization
compile and run

Synonyms

translator · assembler · code translator

Opposites

interpreter

Word family

compile (verb) · compilation (noun) · compiled (adjective)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse compilers with interpreters, not realizing that compilers translate the entire program upfront while interpreters process it during execution.

Learn it for good

Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.

Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD