built-in

[ bilt-in ]

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.

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

adjective

1. made or incorporated as an integral part

   a built-in escape clause

   a built-in cupboard

2. essential; inherent

noun

1. a built-in cupboard or wardrobe

Word History and Origins

Origin of built-in¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

Familiar intellectual property has already been tested with audiences, in the same way that films based on video games, comic books or novels have a built-in base.

From Los Angeles Times

“This is a sign that the built-in safeguards in our voter registration process are working,” he said.

From BBC

In short, it means all existing accounts belonging to under 18s would be moved to new accounts with built-in restrictions, including greater parental controls for children under 16.

From BBC

"We have put in built-in protections so that parents do not have to do a thing to try and protect their teens," she told BBC News.

From BBC

There are gently arcing palm trees, a gleaming built-in barbecue, a refrigerated drawer full of chilled sparkling waters.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• deep-seated
• inherent
• innate