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

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
More of a stat compiler than outright league winner, this scoop of Steel City oatmeal should nourish our rosters, as long as the Pirates remain near the top of MLB's scoring leaderboard. — John Laghezza, New York Times, 24 July 2026 The compiler, the type checker, the linter and the full test suite all run, and if a single one fails, the build fails. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026 The company showed Kimi K3 optimizing GPU kernels, developing a GPU compiler called MiniTriton, designing a prototype AI chip using open-source electronic design automation tools, and completing a computational astrophysics workflow. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 19 July 2026 In terms of equipping developers without any FHE background, Niobium hopes to make The Fog more accessible by providing a tech stack composed of a compiler, software development kit, documentation, and other training materials. — IEEE Spectrum, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for compiler

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

Rhymes for compiler

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Browse Nearby Words

compilement
compiler
compital
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Cite this Entry

“Compiler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compiler. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about compiler

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