preoccupation

[ pree-ok-yuh-pey-shuhn, pree-ok- ]

noun

1. the state of being preoccupied. preoccupy.
2. an act of preoccupying.

preoccupation

/ priːˌɒkjʊˈpeɪʃən; priːˈɒkjʊpənsɪ /

noun

1. the state of being preoccupied, esp mentally
2. something that holds the attention or preoccupies the mind

Other Words From

• over·pre·occu·pation noun
• self-pre·occu·pation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of preoccupation¹

1530–40; < Latin praeoccupātiōn- (stem of praeoccupātiō ) a taking possession beforehand. See pre-, occupation

Example Sentences

But that dangerous feeling of exposure is the central preoccupation of the new drama “Queer,” and it can’t be explored without a lead actor who is similarly willing to offer himself up.

From New York Times

Though he rarely laughs, the laughter of others — women, in particular — is one of Trump’s many bizarre preoccupations.

From Salon

The rankings are often criticized by university leaders as unfair and deeply flawed, yet they remain a preoccupation at many campuses as administrators struggle to navigate an increasingly competitive environment for higher education.

From New York Times

The largest study of student experience in the UK suggests the cost of living is a bigger preoccupation than tuition fees when thinking of the overall cost of going to university.

From BBC

To some people, this preoccupation with horror can seem tone deaf.

From Salon

Related Words

• fixation
• obsession