chopping block

Short definition from Wiktionary

Noun

1. 1
   A thick wooden slab used as a cutting surface for preparing food, splitting firewood or kindling, etc.
2. 2
   A block of wood against which a condemned person put their head prior to beheading.
3. 3
   A dangerous or precarious situation.
4. 4
   A dangerous or precarious situation: The threat of an impending budget cut.