preoccupation
|pre-oc-cu-pa-tion|
🇺🇸
/priˌɑːkjəˈpeɪʃən/
🇬🇧
/priˌɒkjʊˈpeɪʃən/
engrossed focus
Etymology
'preoccupation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praeoccupatio', where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'occupare' meant 'to seize'.
'praeoccupatio' transformed into the French word 'préoccupation', and eventually became the modern English word 'preoccupation' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'to seize beforehand', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'being engrossed or absorbed in something'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the state or condition of being preoccupied or engrossed with something.
His preoccupation with work left him little time for his family.
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Noun 2
a subject or matter that engrosses someone.
Environmental issues have become a major preoccupation for many people.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45