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Squatting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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squatting

[ˈskwɒtɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

illegal occupation

The act of occupying an abandoned or unoccupied space or building, usually without the permission of the owner. Squatting is often done as a means of housing by people who cannot afford to rent or buy a property.

Synonyms

occupancy, occupying, trespassing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
squatting

Used when someone lives in a building or on a land without the owner's permission. Often associated with abandoned properties.

  • Many people were squatting in the old factory
occupying

Describes the act of taking up space or residing in a place, which can be either legal or illegal.

  • They were occupying the apartment while they waited for their new house to be ready
trespassing

Entering someone's property without permission, usually intentionally. This term has a negative connotation and often implies breaking the law.

  • The sign warned against trespassing on private property
occupancy

Refers to the act of living in or using a space, typically with permission or a formal arrangement.

  • The building has an occupancy limit of 100 people

Examples of usage

  • She was arrested for squatting in the empty house without permission.
  • Squatting in the park is becoming a common sight in the city.
Context #2 | Verb

exercise

The action of lowering the body into a sitting or crouching position with the knees bent and the weight on the feet. Squatting is a common exercise for strengthening the legs and core muscles.

Synonyms

crouch, kneel, sit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
squatting

Can also refer to inhabiting an abandoned property without legal permission. This usage has a negative connotation.

  • They were squatting in the old abandoned house
  • The authorities cleared out the area where people were squatting
crouch

Describes bending down with your knees bent and your upper body brought forward and down, often to avoid detection or for protection.

  • The cat crouched low, ready to pounce
  • He had to crouch to avoid being seen by the guards
sit

Means to rest your weight on your buttocks rather than your feet, typically on a chair or the ground. Common in everyday use.

  • He sat on the bench enjoying the weather
  • The teacher asked the children to sit in a circle
kneel

Refers to placing one or both knees on the ground. Common in formal settings like prayer or proposing marriage.

  • She knelt to tie her shoe
  • He kneeled down to propose to her

Examples of usage

  • He squatted down to pick up the heavy box.
  • She squats at the gym to build muscle strength.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Fitness

  • Squatting is one of the fundamental movements in strength training, targeting major muscles like the thighs and glutes.
  • Proper squatting form can help improve balance and core strength, useful in many sports and activities.
  • Variations of squats, like jump squats and sumo squats, have been developed to work different muscle groups.

Culture & Lifestyle

  • In many countries, 'squatting' can refer to living in an empty building without permission, often for social or economic reasons.
  • Urban squatting can create alternative communities, showcasing how people can repurpose spaces creatively.
  • Some artists and activists use squatting as a form of protest, drawing attention to housing issues and capitalism.

Sports

  • In some sports, like powerlifting, squats are a competitive lift, testing the strength of an athlete's lower body.
  • The Olympic squat technique is crucial for weightlifters to achieve maximum performance during lifts.
  • Street workouts often incorporate squats as a fundamental move, reflecting the fitness trends of the urban scene.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that squatting can enhance mood and reduce stress, as physical activity releases endorphins.
  • Squatting while discussing ideas or collaborating may encourage teamwork and shared decision-making.
  • The position of squatting is often seen in yoga, fostering relaxation and mindfulness.

Origin of 'squatting'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'squat' comes from the Middle English word 'squatten', meaning to press down or to settle.
  • In the 16th century, it was used to describe a low position, linking it to the action of bending down.
  • The fitness term 'squat' in exercise started to be popular in the late 19th century.

The term 'squatting' has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages when it was used to refer to the practice of settling on unoccupied land. Over time, the term evolved to encompass both the housing practice and the exercise form. In modern times, squatting has become a controversial issue with legal and social implications.

See also: squat, squatter.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,081, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.