Tamp \Tamp\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Tamped; p. pr. & vb. n. Tamping.]

[Cf. F. tamponner to plug or stop. See Tampion.]

1. In blasting, to plug up with clay, earth, dry sand, sod, or other material, as a hole bored in a rock, in order to prevent the force of the explosion from being misdirected.

2. To drive in or down by frequent gentle strokes; as, to tamp earth so as to make a smooth place.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)