In computing, a compiler is a computer program that translates computer code written in one programming language into another language. The name "compiler" is primarily used for programs that translate source code from a high-level programming language to a lower level language to create an executable program.

What do you mean by compiling?

transitive verb. 1 : to compose out of materials from other documents compile a statistical chart. 2 : to collect and edit into a volume compile a book of poems. 3 : to build up gradually compiled a record of four wins and two losses. 4 : to run (something, such as a program) through a compiler.

What happens when you compile?

The actual compiler translates pre-processed source into assembly language. ... The assembler converts the assembly language source to an object, .o , file. An object file is not an executable: it may require definitions from other files, including libraries. The assembler can be run separately with the as command.