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

Though Roblox has built-in features that ban words like 'Snapchat' in an effort to prevent off-app conversations, users work around it by substituting certain emojis or code words. —Ryan Murphy, IndyStar, 20 Nov. 2025

Plus, it's got built-in Alexa with a microphone and Fire TV OS. —PC Magazine, 18 Nov. 2025

Vionic Aria Booties These supportive boots from Vionic are cushioned, flexible, and have built-in arch support. —Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 18 Nov. 2025

There are also numerous third-party speakers with Alexa built-in, including some very high-end audio systems. —Larry Magid, Mercury News, 6 Nov. 2025

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
• 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