Oc`cu*pa"tion (?), n. [L. occupatio: cf.F. occupation.]
1.
The act or process of occupying or taking possession; actual possession and control; the state of being occupied; a holding or keeping; tenure; use; as, the occupation of lands by a tenant.
2.
That which occupies or engages the time and attention; the principal business of one's life; vocation; employment; calling; trade.
Absence of occupation is not rest.
Cowper.
Occupation bridge Engin., a bridge connecting the parts of an estate separated by a railroad, a canal, or an ordinary road.
Syn. -- Occupancy; possession; tenure; use; employment; avocation; engagement; vocation; calling; office; trade; profession.
© Webster 1913.