The word "squats", which is the present tense of the verb "squat", is spelled with a /sk/ sound at the beginning, followed by a /w/ sound and an /ɑ/ vowel sound. The /t/ at the end is pronounced as an unvoiced consonant with a quick release of air. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /skwɑts/. Squats are a popular exercise in which the person bends their knees and lowers their body as if they are sitting, then raising it up again.
Squats, primarily known as a verb, have multiple dictionary definitions depending on the context in which the term is used. In the realm of exercise and fitness, squats refer to a fundamental compound movement in which a person bends their knees and hips while keeping their back straight, typically involving the lowering of the body until the thighs are parallel to the ground or lower, and then returning to an upright position. Squats primarily target the muscles in the lower body, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, offering various benefits such as strength and stability enhancement, muscle building, and improved mobility.
Outside the fitness domain, squats can also refer to unlawfully occupying a property or land without legal authority, thereby establishing an informal settlement or dwelling. This definition is commonly associated with the term "squatting." Squatting typically involves individuals residing in abandoned buildings, empty lots, or unoccupied premises, often driven by financial constraints or ideological motivations. Whether deemed illegal or not, squatting practices vary considerably across different jurisdictions, and the legality and consequences attached to it depend on local laws and regulations.
While squats have different meanings across different fields, they are most commonly associated with the exercise movement that helps strengthen and tone the lower body muscles, promoting physical fitness and overall well-being.
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The word "squats" has multiple origins and contexts, so the etymology can vary depending on the specific usage. Here are a few possible origins:
1. Exercise: In the context of exercise, "squats" refer to a specific type of physical movement. The word "squat" in this sense originated from the Middle French word "esquatir", meaning "to flatten". It later evolved into "esquatiré", which meant "crouch on the heels". Over time, it was further anglicized and simplified to "squat".
2. Occupying property: When used to describe occupying or living in a property illegally (such as an abandoned building or land), the term "squats" originated from the Old French word "esquater", meaning "to crush". It evolved to "esquatir", which meant "to flatten", and eventually became associated with occupying a space without proper authorization.