This compiler's left to provide meaning (6)
I believe the answer is:
import
'meaning' is the definition.
(I know that import is a type of meaning)
'this compiler's left' is the wordplay.
'this compiler's' becomes 'I'm' ('I'm', referring to the crossword compiler).
'left' becomes 'port' (left side of a ship - opposite of starboard).
'im'+'port'='IMPORT'
'to provide' acts as a link.
(Other definitions for import that I've seen before include "introduction" , "Meaning - something from abroad" , "Implied meaning, bring from abroad" , "introduce" , "Bring in goods from abroad" .)