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

Shelf bras are built-in interior layers that work via compression. — Alexandra Malmed, InStyle, 16 July 2026

Google Unlocked Android Smartphone Deal The unlocked Google Pixel 10 Pro delivers Google’s premier mobile experience powered by the advanced Tensor G5 chip and built-in Gemini AI. — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 15 July 2026

Across from there is the formal living room, with a fireplace on the east wall and built-in bookshelves and cabinets on the west. — Brian Bell, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 July 2026

As quantum systems grow, instability, noise and decoherence demand built-in verification and control at the hardware level. — Pravir Malik, Forbes.com, 10 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