occupies

9 definitions • 13 examples

to fill, exist in, or use a place or period of time:

The rest of the time was occupied with writing a report.

The house hasn't been occupied (= lived in) by anyone for a few months.

formal A large picture of the battle of Waterloo occupied the space above the fireplace.

to keep someone busy or interested:

On long journeys I occupy myself with solving maths puzzles.

(of an army or group of people) to move into and take control and/or possession of a place:

Troops quickly occupied the city.

Protesting students occupied the university office for two weeks.

the occupying forces

(of an army or group of people) to move into and take control or possession of a place:

Nationalist forces now occupy more than 70% of the country.

to fill, use, or exist in a place or a time:

A large couch occupies most of the space in the living room.

to fill or use a place:

The new plant will occupy a 185-acre site.

to fill a period of time:

Since he retired, he has struggled to occupy his time.

to have a particular job:

An increasing number of women occupy senior positions on Wall Street.

to take control of a place and refuse to leave it:

Workers occupied the factory eight days ago.