noun

occupation

ah-kyoo-PAY-shuhn/ˌɑːkjuˈpeɪʃn/

An activity that takes up a person's time and attention.

Electrical work is the occupation that holds the worker's careful attention at the bench.

A Black electrician works carefully at an isolated disconnected workbench, showing a skilled occupation.

Etymology

ocLatinover

+cupLatinto grasp, seize

+ationLatinaction or process

The roots describe taking possession. The noun also developed the sense of being engaged or employed in something, leading to the particular business or regular work a person does.

In context

The Stalwart Lovers4:26

… your profession or occupation should be on that canada's noc so there's what we call the noc which is like the list of uh occupation category …

CANADA PR PROCESS EXPLAINED (All You Need To Know) | The Stalwart Lovers

More examples

He lists his occupation as carpenter on the form.
Reading provides a pleasant occupation during the long train ride.
Her daily occupations include cooking, painting, and caring for her dogs.

Forms

occupation · occupations

occupy verb — To take up someone's time or attention.

Similar words

activity: Covers anything someone does, whether briefly or regularly.
pursuit: Suggests an activity followed with sustained interest or effort.
pastime: Specifically describes something done for enjoyment during leisure time.