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.