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.
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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.
The home-appliance manufacturer said it would close its Jaszbereny factory which manufactures built-in and freestanding refrigeration products.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026
Upon entering the property, guests are greeted with an expansive living room that comes complete with a built-in bookshelf and a chic stone fireplace.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026
These structures have a built-in twist, either left- or right-handed, that cannot be superimposed on its mirror image.
From Science Daily • Apr. 19, 2026
If you get it, there’s a built-in Coachella moment ready for the taking.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026
Even with built-in shelves, there’s still enough room for a twin mattress, which we can easily share.
From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy
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.
