Definition

Noun: A Fortran compiler is a specialized computer program that translates source code written in the FORTRAN programming language into machine code or another lower-level form that a computer's processor can execute. It performs the essential tasks of a compiler—lexical analysis, parsing, optimization, and code generation—specifically for the syntax and rules of the FORTRAN language.

Usage

The term is used to refer to the software tool itself. It is typically mentioned in contexts involving software development, programming, and computer science. * You need a Fortran compiler to run this legacy scientific code. * The team installed a new Fortran compiler to improve the performance of their simulations. * Which Fortran compiler is most compatible with this operating system?

Advanced Usage

• Compiler Flags/Options: Specific settings or commands used to control the behavior of the Fortran compiler during the translation process (e.g., optimization level, debugging information).
  • Use the -O2 flag with your Fortran compiler to enable standard optimizations.
• Cross-compiler: A Fortran compiler that runs on one type of computer platform (the host) but generates executable code for a different platform (the target).
  • They used a Fortran cross-compiler to build the application for the embedded system.

Variants and Related Words

• Compiler (n): The general term for any program that translates source code. A Fortran compiler is a type of compiler.
• FORTRAN (n): The high-level programming language for which the compiler is designed. Note: "Fortran compiler" is a compound noun where "Fortran" specifies the type of compiler.
• GCC (GNU Compiler Collection): A widely-used compiler system that includes , a free Fortran compiler.
• gfortran (n): The name of a specific, common Fortran compiler, part of the GCC.

Synonyms

• FORTRAN translator: A less common but descriptive synonym emphasizing the translation function.

Related Phrases

• To compile Fortran code: The action performed by the Fortran compiler.
  • We must compile the Fortran code before we can execute the program.
• Compiler suite / Toolchain: A collection of development tools that often includes a Fortran compiler along with other components like a linker and assembler.

Noun

1. a compiler for programs written in FORTRAN