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Webster 1913 Edition

Anvil

An′vil

,
Noun.
[OE.
anvelt
,
anfelt
,
anefelt
, AS.
anfilt
,
onfilt
; of uncertain origin; cf. OHG.
anafalz
, D.
aanbeld
.]
1.
An iron block, usually with a steel face, upon which metals are hammered and shaped.
2.
Anything resembling an anvil in shape or use.
Specifically
(Anat.)
,
the incus. See
Incus
.
To be on the anvil
,
to be in a state of discussion, formation, or preparation, as when a scheme or measure is forming, but not matured.
Swift.

An′vil

,
Verb.
T.
To form or shape on an anvil; to hammer out;
as,
anviled
armor
.
Beau. & Fl.

Webster 1828 Edition

Anvil

AN'VIL

,
Noun.
[The Latin word incus, incudis,is formed by a like analogy fromin and cudo, to hammer, or shape.]
An iron block with a smooth face, on which smiths hammer and shape their work.
Figuratively, any thing on which blows are laid.
To be on the anvil, is to be in a state of discussion, formation or preparation; as when a scheme or measure is forming, but not matured. This figure bears an analogy to that is discussion, a shaking or beating.

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