chopping block

a thick, often large block of wood on which meat, vegetables, etc., are placed for cutting, trimming, chopping, and the like.

Origin of chopping block

First recorded in 1695–1705

Rasmunsen rolled the chopping-block into the cabin and carried in the eggs.

The Faith of Men |Jack London
Later, when Arne was called in to dinner, Baard still sat on the chopping-block.

Arne: Early Tales and Sketches |Bjornstjerne Bjornson
He put them on the chopping-block and with one mighty blow of his ax cut off both their heads.

The Shoemaker's Apron |Parker Fillmore
To think that that very admirable wit of yours must go the way of the chopping-block!

When God Laughs and Other Stories |Jack London

Looking about, he saw an ax sticking in a chopping-block, and a pile of wood near it, probably the fuel used by these people.

Flight From Tomorrow |Henry Beam Piper