This is the 708th most frequent Dutch word.
zaten
The Dutch word "zaten" is the past tense plural form of "zitten," meaning "sat" or "were sitting."
In this sentence, 'zaten' is used as the past tense of 'zitten,' indicating the position of sitting.
Wij zaten gisteren op de bank.
We were sitting on the couch yesterday.
Here, 'zaten' is used to describe the location or placement of items (the books) in the past.
De boeken zaten in de tas.
The books were in the bag.
In this instance, 'zaten' is part of a continuous past tense construction, indicating an ongoing action (talking) at a past moment.