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.
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
Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 May 2026
Some manholes have built-in ladders, but this one, evidently, did not.
—Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 22 May 2026
Best of all, the suit boasts built-in UPF 50 sun protection.
—Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 20 May 2026
The murphy bed, which is hidden behind dusty rose millwork, has built-in dressers on either side.
—Angela Tafoya, Vogue, 20 May 2026
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Adjective
The design avoids trend-chasing and leans into classic refinement, with crown molding, velvet benches, and carved desks with built-in charging ports.
—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 May 2026
Some manholes have built-in ladders, but this one, evidently, did not.
—Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 22 May 2026
Best of all, the suit boasts built-in UPF 50 sun protection.
—Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 20 May 2026
The murphy bed, which is hidden behind dusty rose millwork, has built-in dressers on either side.
—Angela Tafoya, Vogue, 20 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for built-in
Cite this Entry
“Built-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/built-in. Accessed 25 May. 2026.
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