Preoccupy
/priːˈɒk.jʊ.paɪ/noun
To dominate or absorb someone's thoughts or attention.
Did you know?In medieval times, being 'preoccupied' was often associated with being possessed or under the influence of a spirit, a concept feared by many.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
occupare
“to seize, take possession of.”
Old French
Old French
preoccuper
“to occupy beforehand.”
14th Century
Middle English
preoccupien
“to take possession of in advance.”
Modern English
English
preoccupy
“to occupy the mind or thoughts of someone.”