v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 reside in; be the tenant of. 2 take up or fill (space or time or a place). 3 hold (a position or office). 4 take military possession of (a country, region, town, strategic position). 5 place oneself in (a building etc.) forcibly or without authority. 6 (usu. in passive; often foll. by in, with) keep busy or engaged.
[ ME f. OF occuper f. L occupare seize (as OB-, capere take) ]