What does linker mean?
A linker is something that connects other people, objects, ideas, or components. The word can describe a person who brings separate groups together, an object that joins physical parts, or a broader means of communication or connection. In computing, a linker is a program that combines separately compiled object files into an executable program. In molecular biology and chemistry, a linker is a short sequence, molecular segment, or chemical group that joins larger components. The word is especially useful when the central idea is connection: it can refer equally to a human intermediary, a technical tool, and a structural component. Although “connector” is often a more neutral general synonym, “linker” can suggest a bridging role, as though the separate parts function more effectively once joined.
nounA linker is a person, thing, or process that connects two or more parts. In computing, the term specifically refers to a program that combines separate compiled files into an executable program.
- A person or thing that connects or links two or more people, objects, ideas, or parts.
- A computing program that combines separately compiled object files into an executable program.
- In molecular biology or biochemistry, a short nucleic-acid sequence, molecular segment, or chemical group that connects two larger components.
"The community organizer served as a linker between local residents and city officials."
"The new transport route is an important linker between the town and the surrounding villages."
"The linker combines the object files into a single executable application."
The standard plural is “linkers.”
"The engineers installed chemical linkers between the two sections of the polymer."
In computing, a linker turns separate pieces of code into one program that can actually run.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does linker come from?
Linker is an English formation made from link and the suffix -er, which identifies a person or thing performing an action or function. Its base verb, link, descends from Old English linkan, meaning “to connect” or “join,” and belongs to the Germanic family of related words; a close cognate is Dutch linken, “to link.” English later developed related forms such as linkage and linkable, while linker became especially established in technical contexts such as computing and molecular biology.
How linker is actually used
Linker is a general countable noun. In computing, it normally names a specific program or tool, while in molecular biology and chemistry it refers to a molecular component that joins other components. The term is formal and technical in these specialized senses but broadly understandable.
Easily confused with linker
A linker connects or joins things, whereas to linger means to remain longer than expected or to delay leaving.