Definition

To completely fill someone's mind or attention so that they cannot think about anything else.

Example

The mystery novel preoccupied her thoughts for days.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I’ve been thinking that work can really preoccupy me sometimes.

I totally get that; it can be hard to focus on other things.

Yeah, I wish I could just switch off and relax instead of letting it preoccupy my mind.

Maybe try some mindfulness exercises; they help me a lot!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Preoccupy → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "occupare" (meaning to seize or take). The word "preoccupy" means to seize or take possession of something before it is available or to occupy one's mind beforehand.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'taken' ('occupare') 'before' ('pre-') it is available — that's why preoccupy means to occupy your mind with something in advance.

Visually Confused Words