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
Synonyms
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
Raviraj Hegde, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024
The galley kitchen has built-in cabinets and enough counter space for a home chef to prepare meals.
—Toni Sutton, People.com, 25 Oct. 2024
Lindsay Tigar, Peoplemag, 24 Mar. 2023
Pest-Deterrent Features Since squirrels often steal food from bird feeders (and damage them in the process), many of the best feeders have built-in deterrents to prevent this behavior.
—Kristen (kj) Callihan, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2023
See all Example Sentences for built-in 
Adjective
Digital payments have built-in features to protect both the donor and the organization, ensuring funds go where they’re meant to.
—Raviraj Hegde, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024
The galley kitchen has built-in cabinets and enough counter space for a home chef to prepare meals.
—Toni Sutton, People.com, 25 Oct. 2024
Noun
In addition, there are built-in shades on the sides that can be pulled down to give your dog darkness and security while flying to keep them calm and content.
—Lindsay Tigar, Peoplemag, 24 Mar. 2023
Pest-Deterrent Features Since squirrels often steal food from bird feeders (and damage them in the process), many of the best feeders have built-in deterrents to prevent this behavior.
—Kristen (kj) Callihan, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2023
See all Example Sentences for built-in
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'built-in.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near built-in
Cite this Entry
“Built-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/built-in. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share