Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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.