meatgrinder

noun3

1. •
   A device for cutting meat into very small pieces.

   • Keep your fingers away from the throat of the meatgrinder.
2. •
   (informal) An activity with a high casualty or attrition rate, such as a military battle or an occupational or athletic activity.

   • The mountainous second day of the race was a real meatgrinder, with 20% of racers dropping out.
3. •
   (informal) A process that is likely to be injurious in a non-physical way.

   • Senate confirmation hearings are a real meatgrinder, discouraging people from government service.