I think that when the default c compiler turns source into an executable called "a.out", everyone is motivated away from "a". Having a compiler called "cc" rend

I think that when the default c compiler turns source into an executable called "a.out", everyone is motivated away from "a". Having a compiler called "cc" renders "c" problatic. Similar arguments probably continue across the rest of the alphabet - the brevity only contributes to a lack of clarity. That's what shell functions and aliases let you do for a personal set of preferences.