How did formations wait

[Last Hussar]

I'm thinking especially pre-20th Century.

How did the formations wait?

Were they all drawn up nice and neat, like we do on a table? I'm thinking how did they 'Ablute', or eat or what ever?

I know in some Napoleonic battles, some battalions would be in position for hours - did they just stand in formation from Dawn to mid-afternoon?

[Duke Speedy of Leighton]

At Waterloo the British sat on their packs while waiting, then stood too.

[steve_holmes_11]

The Zulu reserve (lions) would often sit with their backs to the battle.

The rationale was to prevent an impetuous rush into battle, and remain under their commander's control.