an
vil
Plural
anvils
1
a heavy metal block used as a surface for shaping hot materials by hammering
- The blacksmith struck the glowing iron on the anvil.
- Sparks flew as the blade was shaped against the anvil.
- He placed the horseshoe on the anvil for final adjustments.
- The workshop echoed with the rhythmic clang of hammer on anvil.
- A sturdy anvil is essential for forging durable tools.
2
the middle bone in the chain of three tiny ossicles in the middle ear, located between the hammer and the stirrup
- The anvil transmits sound vibrations from the malleus to the stapes.
- Damage to the anvil can affect hearing clarity.
- The surgeon examined the anvil during the middle ear procedure.
- Together, the hammer, anvil, and stirrup amplify sound waves.
- The anvil plays a key role in the auditory process.
Synonyms: