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
The ultra-flattering pants have a built-in smoothing tummy panel and are made from a soft, super-stretchy denim material. Melony Forcier, InStyle, 1 Sep. 2026 The four-bedroom’s open-plan kitchen includes a stone island, a marble backsplash, stainless appliances, and a coffee bar, and the dining room has a corner built-in china cabinet. The Week Us, TheWeek, 31 Aug. 2026 Intruders at gates The open ADB, along with the default presence of apps that have built-in proxy functionality, creates a dangerous mix that makes SuperBox a potent threat. Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 31 Aug. 2026 Accent walls make a living room look lopsided, especially when a built-in is placed in front of it. Shagun Khare, The Spruce, 25 Aug. 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 4 Sep. 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
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