built-in

[bilt-in]

adjective

1. built so as to be an integral and permanent part of a larger construction.

   The wall has a built-in bookcase.

2. existing as a natural or characteristic part of something; inherent.

   a built-in contempt for daydreaming.

noun

1. a built-in piece of furniture or appliance.

2. an additional feature or capability, as of a machine or a service.

   a car with power steering, power brakes, and other built-ins.

built-in

adjective

1. made or incorporated as an integral part

   a built-in cupboard

   a built-in escape clause

2. essential; inherent

noun

1. a built-in cupboard or wardrobe

Word History and Origins

Origin of built-in¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

"That told us the brain must have a built-in way of prioritizing urgent survival needs over pain, and we wanted to find the neurons responsible for that switch," says Goldstein.

Read more on Science Daily

It is a key part of the body’s built-in mechanism for healing injured tissue.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

They are concerned that the new tools could facilitate abuses of users’ likeness, despite built-in protections, and that videos could spread misinformation.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Within a few years, it was hard to find a box that didn’t have a built-in DVR.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Inside, chocolate brown wood is everywhere: walls, beams, window sills, paneling, wainscoting, furniture, not to mention built-in cabinets, benches and window seats.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• deep-seated 
• inherent 
• innate