Websters Dictionary 1828
This online edition has been carefully prepared in a special format. All words, definitions, and examples have been preserved, but the explanations of word origins have been left out to make the data easier to use in a digital format. We have also removed Webster's long technical introduction for the same reason.
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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.
First Occurrence in the Bible(KJV): Isaiah 41:7