1. taking up all of one’s attention or thoughts; absorbing

Examples

• The upcoming exam was preoccupying her thoughts all week.
• He found the mystery novel quite preoccupying.
• The preoccupying nature of the project made it hard to focus on anything else.
• Her preoccupying worry about the interview kept her awake at night.
• The preoccupying details of the case demanded his full attention.
• The children found the puzzle preoccupying for hours.