Hypertext Webster Gateway: "pumping"

From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) (web1913)

{Pumping engine}, a steam engine and pump combined for
raising water. See {Steam engine}.

From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) (web1913)

2. To draw water, or the like, from; to from water by means
of a pump; as, they pumped the well dry; to pump a ship.

3. Figuratively, to draw out or obtain, as secrets or money,
by persistent questioning or plying; to question or ply
persistently in order to elicit something, as information,
money, etc.

But pump not me for politics. --Otway.

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