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.
Standard equipment includes the dual-motor AWD system; Super Cruise driver assistance; 33-inch widescreen LED display with Google Built-In; and a 23-speaker AKG audio system.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 1, 2026
Jean Calleja, co-owner of the Eco Laundry Company, a sustainable wash-and-dry service in New York, says his company gives customers two options: Ecos’ Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent with Built-In Softener or the Laundress’ Signature Detergent.
From Seattle Times • Jun. 2, 2021
I call this internal mechanism my Built-In Hit Detector.
From Time Magazine Archive
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.
