The spelling of the word "squatting" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced with a short "o" sound, like the word "hot." The "a" in the second syllable is pronounced with a broad, open vowel sound. The final syllable ends with the "-ing" suffix, which is pronounced with a nasal "ng" sound. Altogether, "squatting" is pronounced /ˈskwɒtɪŋ/, with emphasis on the first syllable. The word refers to the act of crouching down on one's haunches.
Squatting refers to the act of occupying an abandoned or vacant property, typically without the owner's permission, and making it one's temporary or permanent residence. It is characterized by the unlawful occupation of properties, such as abandoned houses, buildings, or land, by individuals or groups who lack legal ownership or right to access. Squatting is often considered a form of civil disobedience or protest against a perceived injustice, such as homelessness, excess property vacancies, or lack of affordable housing.
Squatters typically move into neglected or unoccupied properties, making necessary adjustments and improvements to meet their basic housing needs. This may involve repairing utilities, such as water or electricity, or furnishing the dwelling to create functional living spaces. Squatting can sometimes lead to the formation of squatting communities or collectives where individuals share resources and support one another.
The legal and social implications of squatting vary across jurisdictions. While some countries may have legislation in place to protect squatters' rights, others view squatting as a criminal offense and take legal action to evict squatters. The motivations behind squatting can range from basic shelter needs to political activism, housing rights advocacy, or even cultural appropriation. Additionally, squatting can also occur in the digital realm, referring to the act of occupying a domain name or online platform without proper authorization.
• Used for sitting or squatting upon.
• The act of settling upon new lands without a title.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "squatting" has its origins in the Old French term "esquatir", which means to crush or flatten. This verb was derived from the Latin word "exquassare", meaning to shake off or shatter. Over time, "esquatir" evolved into the Middle French word "esquatir", which referred to crouching or squatting down. In English, the term "squatting" became prevalent in the 18th century, specifically describing the act of occupying a property without legal ownership or permission.