'squat' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'esquatir,' where 'es-' meant 'out' and 'quatir' meant 'to press or flatten.'

'esquatir' transformed into the Middle English word 'squatten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'squat.'

Initially, it meant 'to press or flatten,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to crouch or sit with knees bent.'