preoccupancy

[pree-ok-yuh-puhn-see]

noun

1. the act, right, or instance of prior occupancy.

2. the state of being absorbed in thought; preoccupation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of preoccupancy¹

First recorded in 1745–55; pre- + occupancy

Example Sentences

With this entire preoccupancy of the ground, and these common though unworthy dispositions in its favor, the wonder is, that it is not more popular.

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A preoccupancy with religious characteristics assists those who are interested in the problem of sublimation.

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