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.
-
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 also 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
Owning a streaming device is not illegal in the UK, even if it has been "jailbroken", where the built-in software restrictions have been removed to install unauthorised apps.
From BBC • May 23, 2026
WSJ | Buy Side: This new suitcase has a unique design with lock-latch closures and built-in packing cubes that make it easy to stay organized on the go.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026
On his way down the stairs, he noticed a built-in cabinet with heavy doors beneath an old bench on the landing.
From "Chasing Vermeer" by Blue Balliett
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.
