preoccupation

noun

pre·​oc·​cu·​pa·​tion (ˌ)prē-ˌä-kyə-ˈpā-shən How to pronounce preoccupation (audio)
1
: an act of preoccupying : the state of being preoccupied
2
a
: extreme or excessive concern with something
b
: something that preoccupies one

Examples of preoccupation in a Sentence

We need to better understand the problems and preoccupations of our clients. the future entomologist's preoccupation with insects from a very early age
Recent Examples on the Web
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Opposition forces have capitalized on the preoccupation of Assad's allies—Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah—with other regional conflicts. Jason Fields, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024 Many exhibit the rich sense of atmosphere, chiaroscuro lighting, and preoccupation with the dark side of human nature that would become so prevalent in the 1940s. Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 15 Oct. 2024 Days Without End by Sebastian Barry (2016) ‘Days Without End’ by Sebastian Barry $19 $26 now 27% off This novel deals with one of Irish literature’s enduring preoccupations: the search for a better life in America. Tomi Obaro, Vulture, 21 Nov. 2024 Surely this grafts the preoccupations of a later era onto her eighteenth-century life. Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for preoccupation 

Word History

First Known Use

1572, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of preoccupation was in 1572

Dictionary Entries Near preoccupation

Cite this Entry

“Preoccupation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preoccupation. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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