linker: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical (Computing, Chemistry, Linguistics), occasionally Business
Quick answer
What does “linker” mean?
A person or thing that connects or joins separate parts.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person or thing that connects or joins separate parts.
In computing: a program that combines object files into an executable. In chemistry: a molecule that connects two other molecular structures. In linguistics: a connecting word or morpheme.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is consistent across fields. The computing term is universal. British English might occasionally use 'linker' in broader connecting contexts (e.g., business) more readily.
Connotations
Neutral and functional; implies a crucial but often background technical role.
Frequency
Low frequency in general discourse. Slightly higher in UK English for non-technical 'connector' senses.
Grammar
How to Use “linker” in a Sentence
linker between A and Blinker for [purpose]linker in [system/process]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “linker” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Rare as verb; base form 'link' is used]
American English
- [Rare as verb; base form 'link' is used]
adverb
British English
- [No established adverbial form]
American English
- [No established adverbial form]
adjective
British English
- The linker rod was securely fastened.
- We need a better linker mechanism.
American English
- The linker arm was securely fastened.
- We need a better linker mechanism.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. 'She acted as a key linker between the marketing and development teams.'
Academic
Common in specific fields: 'The peptide linker was cleaved during the reaction.'
Everyday
Very rare. Might be used for a person who connects people: 'He's a great network linker.'
Technical
Primary domain: 'The C++ linker reported undefined references.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “linker”
- Using 'linker' as a common synonym for 'connection' (too technical).
- Confusing 'linker' (the tool) with 'link' (the result).
- Pronouncing it /ˈlaɪŋkər/ (like 'link' with a long 'i').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is primarily a technical term used in computing, chemistry, and linguistics.
A 'link' is the connection itself or a single element in a chain. A 'linker' is the agent or tool that creates the link or joins multiple links/parts.
Yes, but it's rare and somewhat jargonistic. Terms like 'connector', 'liaison', or 'networker' are more natural.
A linker (or link editor) takes one or more object files generated by a compiler and combines them into a single executable program, resolving references between them.
A person or thing that connects or joins separate parts.
Linker is usually technical (computing, chemistry, linguistics), occasionally business in register.
Linker: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɪŋkə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɪŋkər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this technical term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a LINK in a chain. A LINKER is the thing that MAKES those links.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONNECTION IS PHYSICAL ATTACHMENT / A BRIDGE IS A LINKER.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'linker' MOST specifically and commonly used?