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

The Ceramic models also have built-in cellular service and start at $899 for 42mm or $949 for 46mm. — Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 17 Sep. 2026

Many job seekers worry that AI interviewers may have built-in biases regarding race, ethnicity, age, gender or manner of speaking. — Sophie Caldwell juhohn Lee, CNBC, 16 Sep. 2026

To navigate architectural challenges consider having built-in or custom storage made for the space. — Sophia Herring, Architectural Digest, 9 Sep. 2026

The water-resistant exterior is suited for stadiums, gyms, and concerts and the smart design folds flat with a built-in carrying strap for easy transportation. — ABC News, 7 Sep. 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