English Reference
noun

occupancy

n.
US /ˈɑkjəpənsi/ UK /ˈɒkjʊpənsi/ oc·cu·pan·cy UK spelling occupancies

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of living in a house or using a building for work.

    the act of occupying or the state of being an occupant or tenant in a property.

    Simple

    The new apartment building is ready for occupancy starting next month.

    In context

    The certificate of occupancy was delayed by several weeks due to a failure in the fire suppression system's final inspection.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the number of people using a room or building compared to how much space there is.

    the proportion of available space that is currently used or rented, often expressed as a percentage.

    Simple

    The hotel had a high occupancy rate during the summer holidays.

    In context

    The city council introduced new regulations to limit the maximum occupancy of small venues to ensure public safety during concerts.

    fill ratecapacity
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal Law

    the length of time that someone lives in or uses a property.

    the duration or period during which a person or entity holds or inhabits a specific premises.

    Simple

    During her occupancy of the house, she made many improvements to the garden.

    In context

    The lease agreement clearly outlines the responsibilities of the tenant throughout the entire period of their occupancy.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    how often a specific state or event is expected to happen.

    the expected frequency or probability of a specific state within a system.

    Simple

    The scientist measured the occupancy of different energy levels in the atom.

    In context

    In statistical mechanics, the fractional occupancy of the binding sites can be calculated using the Langmuir isotherm equation.

The high occupancy rates of flights in August has also made it difficult for holidaymakers with cancelled flights to be offered alternative seats on other flights.

The Local· 14 Aug 2026

From occupant + -cy.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated