tamp
UK: tæmp | US: tæmp
vt. to pack down firmly by repeated light strokes
vt. to fill (a blast hole) with clay or sand to confine explosive gases
n. a tool or device used for tamping
The word "tamp" traces back to Middle English tampen, which is believed to derive from Old Norse tampa (to tap or pat lightly). It originally described the action of packing or pressing down material, such as earth or tobacco, with repeated light blows. The term retained its core meaning of "firm packing" over time, later extending to specialized uses like mining (tamping explosives) and construction. Its Scandinavian roots reflect practical, hands-on actions common in labor-intensive tasks.
The barista tamped the coffee grounds evenly before brewing.
Miners must tamp the dynamite carefully to avoid premature explosions.
Use the back of the shovel to tamp the soil around the newly planted tree.
The construction worker tamped the asphalt to create a smooth surface.
She tamped down her excitement to maintain a professional demeanor.