built-in
Americanadjective
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built so as to be an integral and permanent part of a larger construction.
The wall has a built-in bookcase.
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existing as a natural or characteristic part of something; inherent.
a built-in contempt for daydreaming.
noun
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a built-in piece of furniture or appliance.
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an additional feature or capability, as of a machine or a service.
a car with power steering, power brakes, and other built-ins.
adjective
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made or incorporated as an integral part
a built-in cupboard
a built-in escape clause
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essential; inherent
noun
Etymology
Origin of built-in
First recorded in 1895–1900
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It features a built-in system that amplifies the sounds of the electric engine in a bid to mimic the roar of a traditional supercar.
From Barron's • May 26, 2026
The property also has a 40-foot pool, spa, and built-in barbecue station.
From MarketWatch • May 26, 2026
Even if they do, they are still less likely to have built-in networks to effectively fundraise.
From Slate • May 22, 2026
The U.K. doesn’t benefit from the kind of built-in demand for its currency and debt that the U.S. enjoys, with the dollar’s reserve status attracting huge investment from abroad.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026
He has a built-in garden of reasons to choose from.
From "Travels with Charley in Search of America" by John Steinbeck
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
