What does ANVIL mean?

anvil

Part of Speech: noun

Definition: a heavy iron block with a flat top and concave sides, on which metals are hammered and shaped.

Pronunciations: US: /ˈæn.vəl/; UK: /ˈæn.vɪl/

Origin and Usage: The word "anvil" comes from Old English "anfilt" which means "on which something is beaten." The word has been in use since the 10th century. Anvils were used in ancient times, and they are still used today in metalworking. The word "anvil" is also used metaphorically to describe a person or thing that is a basic and reliable tool or support.

Synonyms: forge, stithy, block, hammerstone, pounding block

Related Words: forge, metal, steel, hammer, pound

Example Sentences:

• He used the anvil to shape the horseshoe.
• The blacksmith hammered the red-hot metal on the anvil.
• The anvil is a basic tool in metalworking.
• The company is the anvil of the industry, providing a reliable foundation for others to build upon.