First recorded in 1820–30.
Formed from ab-, "away from," and squat, "to sit in a low or crouching position."
A pseudo-Latinism, it parallels Latin-derived words with initial abs- like abscond and abstention and final -tulate, as in congratulate.
Sign up for more Word of the Day!

EXAMPLES OF ABSQUATULATE

The mischievous cat managed to absquatulate every time the door was left open.
When they heard the police sirens approaching, the burglars decided to absquatulate from the scene of the crime.

It's National Poetry Month, and we’ve created a challenge that really is for everyone. Submit now!

Did you mean Tanzanian?