occurs; occurred; occurring
1
somewhat formal
: to happen
The event is scheduled to occur at noon tomorrow.
No one was ready for what was about to occur.
There's a chance that a similar event will occur in the future.
The disease tends to occur in children under the age of five.
2
formal
: to appear or exist : to be found
The plant occurs naturally throughout South America.
a naturally occurring compound/chemical/substance
Cite this Entry
“Occur.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/occur. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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