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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To some people, this preoccupation with horror can seem tone-deaf. Sarah Kollat, Discover Magazine, 25 Oct. 2024 To some people, this preoccupation with horror can seem tone deaf. Sarah Kollat, The Conversation, 18 Oct. 2024 Read: Lighthouse parents have more confident kids An important part of this process is learning to wrestle with vulnerability—one of care ethics’ core preoccupations. Elissa Strauss, The Atlantic, 16 Oct. 2024 Instead, the interiors riff on Woodbury's palette and preoccupations: neutral backgrounds punctuated by colors pulled straight from his seascapes. Paul Jebara, Forbes, 29 Sep. 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 Nov. 2024.

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