object code (ŏb'jĭkt) The code produced by a compiler from the source code, usually in the form of machine language that a computer can execute directly. It may, however, be in assembly language, an intermediate code that is then translated into machine language. Compare source code. |
The machine code generated by a source code language processor such as an assembler or compiler. A file of object code may be immediately executable or it may require linking with other object code files, e.g. libraries, to produce a complete executable program.
(1995-01-31)