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

Many Android phones also have built-in earthquake alerts that do not require a separate app. — Sacbee.com, 14 Oct. 2026

Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones also have built-in ways to send photo files without relying on a messaging app that may shrink them along the way. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 13 Oct. 2026

The Google Play Store is getting a big update for cars with Google built-in. — Emma Roth, The Verge, 13 Oct. 2026

Spanx’s Authentic 360 jeans feature subtly stretchy fabric that maintains its structure, built-in shaping panels that smooth the stomach, waist, and back, and a casual-cool raw hem kick flare that elongates the legs. — Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Oct. 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