occupy

/ˈɒkjʊpˌa‌ɪ/

/ˈɑkjəˌpaɪ/

[verb]

to occupy

[VERB]

MAIN VERB

to live in a place that is either rented or owned

synonyms : lodge in

reside

keep busy with

synonyms : busy

occupy the whole of

synonyms : fill

to come to power and control in a place using military force

synonyms : invade

be on the mind of

synonyms : concern

interest

worry

consume all of one's attention or time

synonyms : absorb

engage

engross

require (time or space)

synonyms : take

use up

assume, as of positions or roles

synonyms : fill

take

Examples

1. My uncle used to warn me that the devil finds work for idle hands when they are not otherwise occupied, urging me to fill my free time with productive activities.

2. If you're trying to quit smoking, it's helpful to keep yourself occupied with other activities because constant occupation prevents temptation.

3. You want that job, you need to let go of all those hobbies you occupy yourself with.

4. The oceans of the world occupy over 70% of the earth's surface.

Nearby words