built-in

1 of 2

adjective

ˈbilt-ˈin 

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

built-in

2 of 2

noun

ˈbilt-ˌin 

: a built-in piece of furniture

Synonyms

Adjective

• constitutional
• constitutive
• essential
• hardwired
• immanent
• inborn
• inbred
• indigenous
• ingrain
• ingrained
• engrained
• inherent
• innate
• integral
• intrinsic
• native
• natural

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

Adjective

Digital payments have built-in features to protect both the donor and the organization, ensuring funds go where they’re meant to. —Raviraj Hegde, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024

The galley kitchen has built-in cabinets and enough counter space for a home chef to prepare meals. —Toni Sutton, People.com, 25 Oct. 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

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1898, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1919, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

built-in

adjective

ˈbil-ˈtin

1

: forming a permanent part of a structure or object

built-in bookcases

2

: built into the ground

a built-in swimming pool