to be on the anvil

1 definition found

to be on the anvil - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  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.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. Anything resembling an anvil in shape or use. Specifically
        (Anat.), the incus. See Incus.
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     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.
        [1913 Webster]