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 of hardwired

• 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

Like fuel, food and shelter, smartphones and laptops are necessities for most of us (and for our kids, hardwired to want the latest upgrades). — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026

This means that nature doesn’t stop at the property line, and pests are biological entities that are hardwired to search for food, water and shelter. — Kody Boye, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 May 2026

The Spurs and Thunder are hardwired to execute by now, thanks to the coding inputted during the regular season. — Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 16 May 2026

Humans are hardwired to resist change, so implementing new technologies is often met with skepticism or pushback. — Bill Pappas, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

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