Synonyms of built-innext
1
a
: forming an integral part of a structure or object
a camera with a built-in flash
especially : constructed as or in a recess in a wall
a built-in bookshelf
b
: built into the ground
a built-in swimming pool
2
a
: inherent
a built-in advantage
b
: already established
Their best-seller status gave them a built-in audience.
: a built-in piece of furniture

Examples of built-in in a Sentence

Adjective a poker player with a seemingly built-in ability to read his opponents' faces
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
To overcome this limitation, the researchers added a built-in electro-optic (EO) equalizer that helps the modulator handle faster-changing signals. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026 There’s just a single SD card slot, so there’s no option for redundant backup storage, but the FP2 does come with 70GB of storage built-in that can be used when your memory card unexpectedly fills up. — Andrew Liszewski, The Verge, 23 Oct. 2026 Very few vehicles have Google built-in, but Google often releases new car features on them first. — Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 20 Oct. 2026 Your antivirus or security suite may well have built-in scam protection. — Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for built-in

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of built-in was in 1852

Cite this Entry

“Built-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/built-in. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

built-in

adjective
ˈbil-ˈtin
1
: forming a permanent part of a structure or object
built-in bookcases
2
: built into the ground
a built-in swimming pool
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster