What does squatness mean?
Squatness is the noun form of the adjective squat and describes a short, broad, or stocky quality. It is often used for people’s builds, but it can also characterize the form of buildings, vehicles, furniture, and other objects that appear low, dense, or compact. The word is more precise than simply saying that something is short, because it suggests breadth or stockiness rather than length alone. In architectural or descriptive writing, squatness can convey stability, solidity, or an imposing silhouette. For example, the squatness of a tower may make it seem more formidable, while the squatness of a figure may suggest a sturdy or compact physique. Although understandable and occasionally useful, squatness is less common than words such as stockiness or compactness.
The quality of being short and broad or stocky, especially in a person's build.
"His squatness gave him a remarkably sturdy appearance."
Often used with the body, a figure, or a person's physique; relatively uncommon in general speech.
The quality of having a low, compact, or solid form.
"The squatness of the bunker was unmistakable."
Commonly applies to buildings, structures, vehicles, and other solid objects.
Rare; the word is normally used as an uncountable abstract noun.
"The differences in squatness are easily noticeable."
Squatness is the word for that unmistakably low, broad, compact silhouette—more descriptive than merely calling something short.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does squatness come from?
The word is formed from squat plus the abstract noun-forming suffix -ness. Squat belongs to English and is inherited from Germanic vocabulary, while -ness was used in Old English to create nouns expressing qualities or states. The compound therefore follows a long-established English pattern in which a descriptive adjective is converted into a noun naming the corresponding quality.
How squatness is actually used
Squatness is relatively uncommon and is more descriptive than everyday standard usage. It is especially appropriate for describing a person's build, a building, or an object with a low, compact form.
Easily confused with squatness
Squatness describes a short, broad or stocky quality, whereas squareness describes a shape with equal sides and right angles.