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

Their best-seller status gave them a built-in audience.

built-in

2 of 2

noun

ˈbilt-ˌin 

: a built-in piece of furniture

Synonyms of built-in

Adjective

• inherent
• intrinsic
• integral
• essential

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

To better blend in with locals, swap them for the Baleaf Travel Pants With Zipper Pockets, which are just as soft and stretchy, but with the bonus of multiple zippered pockets and built-in sun protection. — Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 1 Aug. 2026

The products have built-in LED lights powered by button cell and coin batteries. — Saleen Martin, USA Today, 31 July 2026

Some may even have built-in speakers or smart capabilities, but those are out of reach for most people. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 29 July 2026

Plus, built-in AcerVisionCare tech shields your eyes from blue light and screen flicker during marathon homework sessions. — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1919, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for built-in

• akin
• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• crankpin
• deerskin
• foreskin
• fuchsin
• herein
• kingpin
• linchpin
• pigskin

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