compilations

Compilations are collections produced by the act of compiling, a term used across different fields to describe the aggregation or transformation of materials into a single, organized whole. In general, compilations gather items that share a common theme, source, or purpose, and they may be assembled to preserve, study, or enjoy a range of works.

In computing, compilation refers to translating source code written in a programming language into a form that a computer can execute, such as machine code or intermediate bytecode. A compiler performs multiple stages, including lexical analysis, parsing, semantic checks, optimization, and code generation, often followed by linking to produce an executable program. Some languages employ just‑in‑time or interpreted execution instead of ahead‑of‑time compilation, but the term compilation remains central in many environments.

In literature, music, film, and related media, compilations are curated collections such as anthologies, compendia, and best‑of albums. They are created by editors or producers to present a sampling of works around a theme, period, or artist, and may introduce audiences to new material or historical context. Rights clearance, licensing, and editorial decisions shape what is included and how it is presented.

In data management and software distribution, compilations can refer to bundles that combine multiple files or components into a single package or dataset. This can simplify deployment, reproducibility, and sharing, while also requiring careful versioning and dependency management.