OpenSynonym

occupy

/ˈɑːkjəpaɪ/

VERB

1. Live in or take up a physical space

To reside in, work in, hold possession of, or fill a building, room, seat, or area.

1.1. Homes, buildings, and physical spaces

Used when referring to people residing in a property, leasing commercial space, or objects filling a physical area.

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Examples

  • The new tenants plan to occupy the office suite starting next Monday.
  • Two massive bookshelves occupy almost the entire back wall of the study.

Related Words

VERB

2. Keep someone busy or absorbed

To engage, fill, or hold a person's time, attention, or thoughts.

2.1. Time, attention, and daily activities

Used when describing tasks, hobbies, or thoughts that keep someone active, entertained, or mentally focused.

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Examples

  • We brought board games to occupy the kids during the rainy afternoon.
  • Financial planning will occupy most of the committee's time this quarter.

Related Words

VERB

3. Hold an official position or rank

To fill or serve in a formal role, leadership post, or institutional seat.

3.1. Leadership and institutional roles

Used when describing someone serving in a public office, corporate executive role, or academic chair.

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Examples

  • Few leaders have managed to occupy the prime minister's office for three consecutive terms.
  • She was invited to occupy a seat on the hospital's advisory board.

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VERB

4. Seize and control territory by force

To invade, take possession of, and maintain military control over a region, city, or country.

4.1. Military and geopolitical control

Used in historical, political, and military contexts when armed forces capture and govern foreign or disputed territory.

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Examples

  • Allied forces moved quickly to occupy the strategic harbor before winter.
  • Protesters threatened to occupy the public square until their demands were heard.

Related Words