anvil Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a heavy block of iron or steel on which hot metals are shaped by hammering
  2. noun the ossicle between the malleus and the stapes
    incus.

WordNet

An"vil noun
Etymology
OE. anvelt, anfelt, anefelt, AS. anfilt, onfilt; of uncertain origin; cf. OHG. anafalz, D. aanbeld.
Definitions
  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. Swift.
An"vil transitive verb
Definitions
  1. To form or shape on an anvil; to hammer out; as, anviled armor. Beau. & Fl.

Webster 1913