noun
1. : a device for cutting meat fine
2. : something that reduces, pulverizes, or destroys: as
a. : a devastating military action or stratagem
the American public has watched the meat grinder in action on the Russian front, killing millions of troops — New Republic
b. : a process (as an official investigation or examination) or a system that may have ruinous effect
if you went into public life you often put your career and your reputation in a political meat grinder — Saturday Review