Pats (down)

TAMPS

["Press firmly to compact or smooth something out."]

The clue "Pats (down)" hints at the answer "TAMPS" by using "pats" as a synonym for gently pressing or packing something down, which is what "tamping" means. The word "down" reinforces the action, as tamping often involves pressing material downward. It’s a straightforward definition with a slight nudge toward the specific verb form.