Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Stowing \Stow"ing\, n. (Mining)
   A method of working in which the waste is packed into the
   space formed by excavating the vein.

Stow \Stow\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Stowed}; p. pr. & vb. n.
   {Stowing}.] [OE. stowen, fr. stowe a place, AS. stow; cf.
   Icel. eldst[=o]a fireplace, hearth, OFries. st[=o], and E.
   stand. [root]163.]
   1. To place or arrange in a compact mass; to put in its
      proper place, or in a suitable place; to pack; as, to
      stowbags, bales, or casks in a ship's hold; to stow hay in
      a mow; to stow sheaves.

            Some stow their oars, or stop the leaky sides.
                                                  --Dryden.

   2. To put away in some place; to hide; to lodge.

            Foul thief! where hast thou stowed my daughter?
                                                  --Shak.

   3. To arrange anything compactly in; to fill, by packing
      closely; as, to stow a box, car, or the hold of a ship.

Source : WordNet®

stowing
     n : the act of packing or storing away [syn: {stowage}]