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Showing results for preoccupied. Search instead for preoccupie.
Definitions

preoccupied

[pree-ok-yuh-pahyd] / priˈɒk yəˌpaɪd /
ADJECTIVE
busy; mentally caught up in something
Synonyms
STRONGEST
absorbed bemused distracted engaged engrossed fascinated forgetful obsessed
STRONG
absent abstracted bugged daydreaming immersed lost mooning removed spellbound woolgathering
WEAK
absent-minded airheaded asleep deep distrait faraway have on the brain heedless hung up inconscient intent lost in thought moony oblivious rapt spread-out taken up unaware wrapped-up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
bored disenthralled disinterested indifferent uninterested
STRONG
existing
WEAK
observant thoughtful unoccupied

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Human rights lawyer Bhavani Fonseka said protests have been subdued because people are preoccupied with the day-to-day challenge of securing supplies.

From Barron's • Apr. 4, 2026

It’s worth noting that complaints against Live Nation were never solely preoccupied with Ticketmaster divestment.

From Slate • Mar. 10, 2026

With its opulent Beverly Hills mansions, sports cars around every corner, plastic surgeons aplenty and a culture and economy steeped in entertainment, this city has long seemed preoccupied with surface appearances.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

While her classmates were preoccupied with exams, the May ball and where to spend their summers, Franks was worried about making her rent.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

These thoughts preoccupied her as she washed her hands and face and chose a clean dress.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.