Main Entry:

oc·cu·py

Pronunciation:

\ˈä-kyə-ˌpī\

Function:

transitive verb

Inflected Form(s):

oc·cu·pied; oc·cu·py·ing

Etymology:

Middle English occupien to take possession of, occupy, from Anglo-French occupier, occuper, from Latin occupare, from ob- toward + -cupare (akin to capere to seize) — more at ob-, heave

Date:

14th century

1: to engage the attention or energies of2 a: to take up (a place or extent in space) <this chair is occupied> <the fireplace will occupy this corner of the room> b: to take or fill (an extent in time) <the hobby occupies all of my free time>3 a: to take or hold possession or control of <enemy troops occupied the ridge> b: to fill or perform the functions of (an office or position)4: to reside in as an owner or tenant

— oc·cu·pi·er \-ˌpī(-ə)r\ noun