squat etymology

Etymology

The word "squat" comes from the Middle Dutch word "squatten," which means "to sit on one's haunches." It entered the English language in the 16th century.

Meaning and Origin

To squat is to rest on one's haunches, with the buttocks close to the ground. Squatting is a natural human position that is often seen in young children and in many non-Western cultures. It has several advantages, including improved blood circulation, flexibility, and stability.

In English, the word "squat" can also refer to an unauthorized occupation of a building or land. This usage originated in the 19th century, when groups of people began to take over abandoned properties in order to provide shelter for themselves and their families. Today, squatting is still practiced in many cities around the world, although it is often illegal.

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