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
her best-seller status gave her a built-in audience
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
Angela Serratore, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2025
You also get built-in Google TV with a licensed Netflix app, which means effortless streaming without workarounds.
—Shubham Yewale, PCMAG, 26 Feb. 2025
Lindsay Tigar, Peoplemag, 24 Mar. 2023
Pest-Deterrent Features Since squirrels often steal food from bird feeders (and damage them in the process), many of the best feeders have built-in deterrents to prevent this behavior.
—Kristen (kj) Callihan, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2023
See All Example Sentences for built-in
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Adjective
On the second floor, the primary bedroom has space for a king-size bed, and a smaller bedroom has built-in bookshelves.
—Angela Serratore, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2025
You also get built-in Google TV with a licensed Netflix app, which means effortless streaming without workarounds.
—Shubham Yewale, PCMAG, 26 Feb. 2025
Noun
In addition, there are built-in shades on the sides that can be pulled down to give your dog darkness and security while flying to keep them calm and content.
—Lindsay Tigar, Peoplemag, 24 Mar. 2023
Pest-Deterrent Features Since squirrels often steal food from bird feeders (and damage them in the process), many of the best feeders have built-in deterrents to prevent this behavior.
—Kristen (kj) Callihan, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2023
See All Example Sentences for built-in
Cite this Entry
“Built-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/built-in. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.
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