squatted

Squatted is the past tense and past participle of the verb to squat. The term has several senses. In physical movement, to squat means to lower the body by bending the knees and hips while keeping the back straight; a person who has performed this action has squatted. In housing and land use, squatting refers to occupying an unoccupied building or land without permission; individuals who do this are described as having squatted there.

In fitness and sports, squatting is a common exercise that trains the muscles of the legs and core. The past tense squatted is used to describe completing a repetition or set, as in “she squatted 100 kilograms.” Variants of the movement include the back squat, front squat, goblet squat, and overhead squat; proper technique emphasizes safety for the spine, knees, and hips.

In legal and social contexts, squatting policies vary by jurisdiction. Some places criminalize trespass or unauthorized occupancy, while others regulate or permit long-term occupancy under specific conditions or in social or housing programs. Debates around squatting often involve housing rights, property ownership, urban space, and the balance between property enforcement and community needs.