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.
Sir Ian Bauckham, the chief regulator of Ofqual, said invigilators are being trained to spot covert equipment, including smart glasses, hidden earpieces and pens with built-in screens.
From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026
What Luna finds most beautiful about the sport is the built-in hope that no matter how imposing your opponent is, if luck is on your side, winning is possible.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026
The exception is the rare celebrity chef with a built-in or enduring audience, such as Gordon Ramsay.
From Salon • Jun. 3, 2026
Improving fuel economy is one way, and newer trucks often have built-in displays that calculate fuel economy in real time.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026
Dozens of white prayer candles illuminated the stonework of its worship hall—one hundred ninety-two at a quick count—arranged on built-in shelves that reached all the way up to its vaulted ceilings.
From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray
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.
