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

her best-seller status gave her a built-in audience

built-in

2 of 2

noun

ˈbilt-ˌin 

: a built-in piece of furniture

Synonyms

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

Step 7: Clean the water line This step only applies to refrigerators that have built-in dispensers for water and ice. —Taylor Tobin, Southern Living, 16 Oct. 2025

November 2025: Mobile apps, collaborative whiteboards, and built-in calling expand reach and collaboration. —Sixteen Ramos, USA Today, 16 Oct. 2025

The two are crafted from a lightweight nylon and the skirt has built-in shorts and pockets for enhanced mobility. —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 15 Oct. 2025

Many designs feature integrated shelves, while others have built-in filing cabinets. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 15 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1898, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1919, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for built-in

• akin
• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• deerskin
• foreskin
• fuchsin
• herein
• kingpin
• linchpin
• pigskin
• pinyin

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