Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Anvil \An"vil\, n. [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.

Anvil \An"vil\, v. t.
   To form or shape on an anvil; to hammer out; as, anviled
   armor. --Beau. & Fl.

Source : WordNet®

anvil
     n 1: a heavy block of iron or steel on which hot metals are
          shaped by hammering
     2: the ossicle between the malleus and the stapes [syn: {incus}]