Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

linker

noun

/ˈlɪŋ.kər/

Definition

A linker is a program that combines multiple object files into a single executable or library file, resolving references to shared code and data among them.

Examples

The linker takes the object files produced by the compiler and combines them to create the final executable.
During the build process, the linker resolves any function calls made between different source files.
Without a linker, it would be challenging to run a program written in multiple source files.

Meaning

In programming, a linker is essential for creating executable programs from various source code files by linking together the object files generated by a compiler.