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.
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI