A compiler is a software tool that translates code written in one programming language into another, often converting high-level source code into machine-readable instructions. One of the most widely used compilers is the GNU Compiler Collection (GCC), which is especially popular for languages like C and C++. For example, GCC translates C code into executable programs that computers can run directly.
Compilers play a key role in software development by bridging the gap between human-readable code and hardware execution. They enable developers to write in languages that are easier to understand and maintain while producing efficient programs that perform well on target systems.