chopping block

chopping block (plural chopping blocks)

1. A wooden slab used as a cutting surface for food etc.
2. (historical, informal) A block of wood against which a condemned person put their head prior to beheading.
3. (by extension) A dangerous predicament or situation.

   Jim really put his head on the chopping block when he started flirting with the boss's daughter.

4. A situation in which someone or something is threatened with elimination.

• chopping board