built-in

1 of 2

adjective

Synonyms of built-innext
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

: a built-in piece of furniture

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
For graphics, the Arc G3 features a B370 built-in GPU that contains 10 Intel Xe cores. Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 28 May 2026 It’s made from BPA-free plastic and is designed with two built-in measuring holes for easy portioning, plus a slotted strainer to drain your pasta straight from the container. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 28 May 2026 Each cycle had built-in breathing room because humans needed time to fabricate what leadership described. Lior Weinstein, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026 Every last part of the Raffia Tote Bag feels considered, from that key lanyard to the adjustable straps and built-in, pass-through luggage sleeve. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for built-in

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of built-in was in 1852

Cite this Entry

“Built-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/built-in. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.

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

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