preoccupy

[ pree-ok-yuh-pahy ]

verb (used with object)

preoccupied, preoccupying.

1. to absorb or engross to the exclusion of other things.
2. to occupy beforehand or before others.

preoccupy

/ priːˈɒkjʊˌpaɪ /

verb

1. to engross the thoughts or mind of
2. to occupy before or in advance of another

Other Word Forms

• pre·occu·pier noun
• over·pre·occu·py verb (used with object) overpreoccupied overpreoccupying

Word History and Origins

Origin of preoccupy¹

First recorded in 1560–70; pre- + occupy

Word History and Origins

Origin of preoccupy¹

C16: from Latin praeoccupāre to capture in advance, from prae before + occupāre to seize, take possession of

Example Sentences

A purely entertainment-driven environment, by contrast, may erode democracy: When citizens are incessantly preoccupied with amusement and spectacle, they have fewer opportunities to analyze and discuss the societal challenges that confront them.

From Salon

Before their hors d'oeuvres even arrive, Henry has the first of about 100 "What the hell is wrong with this lady?" moments when Violet becomes overly preoccupied with her phone, but for good reason.

From Salon

As his preoccupied parents and self-absorbed sister boarded their plane back home, he joyously joined a group of local Hawaiian men rowing in the ocean.

From Salon

Joly said Canadians are "preoccupied" by what is happening in the White House and they are looking for a prime minister who has "strong values".

From BBC

He gives us a Stanley preoccupied with his buddies.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• consume
• engross