built-in

American  

[bilt-in] / ˈbɪltˌɪn /

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.

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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 British  

adjective

1. made or incorporated as an integral part

   a built-in cupboard

   a built-in escape clause

2. essential; inherent

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noun

1. a built-in cupboard or wardrobe

Etymology

Origin of built-in

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

The space, called Fallen Empire, features red mohair booths, built-in Champagne buckets, mirrored walls and chandeliers, sconces and lamps from the Italian glass-blowing island of Murano.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

The vessel had a built-in GPS that could have been affected by bad weather and sensors that were broken when it was discovered, according to public broadcaster ERT.

From BBC • May 9, 2026

Power banks are especially vulnerable, because unlike cellphones or laptops, they are often made without built-in protection against fires.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

If the brain started as a true tabula rasa, with no built-in connections, neurons would first need to locate and connect with one another.

From Science Daily • May 3, 2026

The small pull-down door that connected the built-in buffet in the dining room to the kitchen counter had not been closed all the way.

From "It All Comes Down to This" by Karen English

Related Words

• deep-seated
• inherent
• innate