built-in
Americanadjective
-
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.
-
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
-
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.
These radioactive elements decay at known rates, effectively acting as a built-in clock that reveals when the eggs were buried.
From Science Daily
Previously the company has said it had made real changes to Instagram, such as introducing teen accounts with built-in protections and giving parents the power to control their children's online experiences.
From BBC
This torsion introduces a built-in rotation within the geometry itself.
From Science Daily
The idea that some brains possess built-in defenses has far-reaching implications, suggesting new ways to develop treatments that strengthen resilience instead of only repairing damage.
From Science Daily
In the main living space, enormous built-in shelves have been accessorized with all manner of collectible items and books, while the living room has a distinctive white brick wall that frames an enormous wood-burning fireplace.
From MarketWatch
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.
