preoccupation

noun

pre·​oc·​cu·​pa·​tion (ˌ)prē-ˌä-kyə-ˈpā-shən How to pronounce preoccupation (audio)
Synonyms of preoccupationnext
1
: an act of preoccupying : the state of being preoccupied
2
a
: extreme or excessive concern with something
a preoccupation with money
b
: something that preoccupies one
We need to better understand the problems and preoccupations of our clients.

Synonyms of preoccupation

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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.
Researchers coined the term orthosomnia in a 2017 paper in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine to describe a preoccupation with achieving perfect sleep data that paradoxically makes sleep worse. — Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 2026 Orthosomnia is a preoccupation with achieving perfect sleep data that paradoxically makes sleep worse. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 2026 Orthosomnia is a term researchers coined for an unhealthy preoccupation with achieving perfect sleep scores, which can paradoxically make sleep worse. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 31 July 2026 That preoccupation with time has also led to a long-running collaboration with Hamilton, which has worked with Nolan on several films. — Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026 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

Phrases Containing preoccupation

Rhymes for preoccupation

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Browse Nearby Words

preoccupate
preoccupation
preoccupied
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Cite this Entry

“Preoccupation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preoccupation. Accessed 3 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on preoccupation

Nglish: Translation of preoccupation for Spanish Speakers

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