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
Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 24 Mar. 2026
Basic Plan: Includes heating system, electrical system, plumbing system / stoppage, water heater, whirlpool bathtub, oven / range / stove, cooktop, built-in microwave, garbage disposal, ductwork, garage door openers and ceiling / exhaust fans.
—Alora Bopray, USA Today, 24 Mar. 2026
Some eyeliners, for example, have built-in smudgers at one end of the pencil.
—Bestreviews, Mercury News, 24 Mar. 2026
Adding to the mud room’s appeal and utility are built-in storage cubbies, a bench to sit on when changing footwear, and ample space to hang coats and hats.
—James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 15 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for built-in
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Adjective
Most major trucking companies have built-in fuel surcharge schedules that raise the cost that shippers pay to move goods automatically.
—Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 24 Mar. 2026
Basic Plan: Includes heating system, electrical system, plumbing system / stoppage, water heater, whirlpool bathtub, oven / range / stove, cooktop, built-in microwave, garbage disposal, ductwork, garage door openers and ceiling / exhaust fans.
—Alora Bopray, USA Today, 24 Mar. 2026
Some eyeliners, for example, have built-in smudgers at one end of the pencil.
—Bestreviews, Mercury News, 24 Mar. 2026
Adding to the mud room’s appeal and utility are built-in storage cubbies, a bench to sit on when changing footwear, and ample space to hang coats and hats.
—James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 15 Mar. 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 3 Apr. 2026.
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