lightning rod
noun
1
: a grounded metallic rod set up on a structure (such as a building) to protect it from lightning
2
: one that serves to divert attack from another
3
: one that is a frequent target of criticism or focus of controversy
she has become a convenient lightning rod for voters' discontent with law-and-order issues—
Aric Press et al.
Aric Press et al.Examples of lightning rod in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Kalaja’s killing quickly became a lightning rod for nationwide dissatisfaction with the Albanian judiciary.
—Beth Bailey, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2025
But elections could act as a lightning rod for frustration over political repression to tip over into unrest.
—semafor.com, 10 Oct. 2025
Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito touched on two lightning rod cases Friday in explaining the pitfalls and promises of originalism.
—Ella Lee, The Hill, 3 Oct. 2025
Rory McIlroy was the lightning rod for the invective, and so was his wife.
—Don Riddell, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
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Beth Bailey, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2025
But elections could act as a lightning rod for frustration over political repression to tip over into unrest.
—semafor.com, 10 Oct. 2025
Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito touched on two lightning rod cases Friday in explaining the pitfalls and promises of originalism.
—Ella Lee, The Hill, 3 Oct. 2025
Rory McIlroy was the lightning rod for the invective, and so was his wife.
—Don Riddell, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightning rod
Cite this Entry
“Lightning rod.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lightning%20rod. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.
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