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

These travel-ready pants have built-in panels for breathability, along with a moisture-wicking, odor-controlling fabric for sweaty days or unpredictable weather. — Kaitlin Marks, Travel + Leisure, 23 July 2026

Plus, built-in AcerVisionCare tech shields your eyes from blue light and screen flicker during marathon homework sessions. — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 22 July 2026

Whereas more traditional methods have built-in guardrails and safety features, off-market options often do not. — William Jones, USA Today, 20 July 2026

The Ventilator fabric is lightweight and breathable while wicking away sweat, and there are built-in vents that push out extra heat and allow for quick moisture evaporation. — Shea Simmons, PEOPLE, 19 July 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