preoccupation Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an idea that preoccupies the mind and holds the attention
  2. noun the mental state of being preoccupied by something
    absorption; preoccupancy; engrossment.
  3. noun the act of taking occupancy before someone else does
    preoccupancy.

WordNet

Pre*oc`cu*pa"tion noun
Etymology
L. praeoccupatio: cf. F. préoccupation.
Definitions
  1. The act of preoccupying, or taking possession of beforehand; the state of being preoccupied; prepossession.
  2. Anticipation of objections. R. South.

Webster 1913