1
a
: forming an integral part of a structure or object
a camera with a built-in flash
especially
: constructed as or in a recess in a wall
a built-in bookshelf
b
: built into the ground
a built-in swimming pool
2
a
: inherent
a built-in advantage
b
: already established
her best-seller status gave her a built-in audience
Synonyms
Examples of built-in in a Sentence
Adjective
a poker player with a seemingly built-in ability to read his opponents' faces
Recent Examples on the Web
Claire Hoppe, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Sep. 2024
Throughout the room are built-in shelves and cabinets, while floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors open onto a deck that wraps around to a covered dining patio with an outdoor fireplace and outdoor kitchen.
—Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2024
Lindsay Tigar, Peoplemag, 24 Mar. 2023
Pest-Deterrent Features Since squirrels often steal food from bird feeders (and damage them in the process), many of the best feeders have built-in deterrents to prevent this behavior.
—Kristen (kj) Callihan, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2023
See all Example Sentences for built-in 
Adjective
In her video, Barry recommends cutting the trim .5 millimeters longer than your measurement to ensure the trim looks built-in.
—Claire Hoppe, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Sep. 2024
Throughout the room are built-in shelves and cabinets, while floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors open onto a deck that wraps around to a covered dining patio with an outdoor fireplace and outdoor kitchen.
—Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2024
Noun
In addition, there are built-in shades on the sides that can be pulled down to give your dog darkness and security while flying to keep them calm and content.
—Lindsay Tigar, Peoplemag, 24 Mar. 2023
Pest-Deterrent Features Since squirrels often steal food from bird feeders (and damage them in the process), many of the best feeders have built-in deterrents to prevent this behavior.
—Kristen (kj) Callihan, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2023
See all Example Sentences for built-in
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'built-in.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near built-in
Cite this Entry
“Built-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/built-in. Accessed 30 Sep. 2024.
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