hardwired

adjective

hard·​wired ˈhärd-ˌwī(-ə)rd 

1

: implemented in the form of permanent electronic circuits

also : connected or incorporated by or as if by permanent electrical connections

a hardwired phone

concepts of attractiveness may be universal and hardwired into the human brain

—Jane E. Brody

2

: genetically or innately determined : inborn

creature whose every action is a reflexive, hardwired response

—Natalie Angier

also : genetically or innately predisposed

a human being who is hardwired to be sociable

—Forbes

Synonyms

• inherent
• intrinsic
• integral
• essential

Examples of hardwired in a Sentence

a cat with a hardwired compulsion to knock expensive knickknacks off of shelves

Recent Examples on the Web

Routers convert the hardwired internet connection into a wireless signal using radio waves. —David Brinkerhoff, USA Today, 11 June 2025

Asimov was confident that hardwired safeguards could prevent the worst A.I. disasters. —Cal Newport, New Yorker, 3 June 2025

Isaac Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics imagines a world where machines are hardwired to protect humans, follow orders and avoid harm by offering a framework for trust and control. —Doron Sitbon, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025

Manager Craig Counsell described Hoerner as being hardwired to make contact, calling it a gift to have that skill set. —Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 6 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for hardwired

• acquired
• admired
• backfired
• conspired
• desired
• enquired
• inquired
• inspired
• rehired
• required
• respired
• transpired

Kids Definition

hardwired

adjective

hard·​wired -ˌwī(ə)rd 

: having or done using or as if using permanent electronic circuits or connections

a hardwired phone

a parent hardwired to defend their child