hardwired

adjective

hard·​wired ˈhärd-ˌwī(-ə)rd 

1

: implemented in the form of permanent electronic circuits

also : connected or incorporated by or as if by permanent electrical connections

a hardwired phone

concepts of attractiveness may be universal and hardwired into the human brain

—Jane E. Brody

2

: genetically or innately determined : inborn

creature whose every action is a reflexive, hardwired response

—Natalie Angier

also : genetically or innately predisposed

a human being who is hardwired to be sociable

—Forbes

Synonyms

• inherent
• intrinsic
• integral
• essential

Examples of hardwired in a Sentence

a cat with a hardwired compulsion to knock expensive knickknacks off of shelves

Recent Examples on the Web

These machines will use sensors hardwired to their bodies, but also remote sensors that send digital data from afar. —Petar Popovski, IEEE Spectrum, 13 Aug. 2025

Smaller models use extension cords to power a few small appliances, while larger portables connect to your electrical panel via a transfer switch to power hardwired appliances like well pumps and water heaters, according to Consumer Reports. —Rick Barrett, jsonline.com, 12 Aug. 2025

From an evolutionary perspective, our brains are hardwired to focus on all that could go wrong or all that did go wrong in the past. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025

Try connecting with a hardwired device, like a computer connected to the modem with an Ethernet cable. —Kara McGinley, USA Today, 11 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for hardwired

• acquired
• admired
• backfired
• conspired
• desired
• enquired
• inquired
• inspired
• rehired
• required
• respired
• transpired

Kids Definition

hardwired

adjective

hard·​wired -ˌwī(ə)rd 

: having or done using or as if using permanent electronic circuits or connections

a hardwired phone

a parent hardwired to defend their child