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.

Examples of lightning rod in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

JPMorgan tries to exude an aggressively nonpartisan and apolitical attitude even as the financial sector’s approach to climate has become a lightning rod in Washington and in statehouses around the country. —Justin Worland, Time, 23 Sep. 2025

Dreyfus became the lightning rod in a clash between two visions of France. —Ian Buruma, New Yorker, 22 Sep. 2025

Few would argue that Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill is a bit of a lightning rod. —Michael Gallagher, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Sep. 2025

In Indonesia, the One Piece flag became a lightning rod after residents chose to display it ahead of the August Independence Day celebrations. —Lex Harvey, CNN Money, 20 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lightning rod

• amphipod
• arthropod
• copepod
• decapod
• endopod
• escalade
• esplanade
• exopod
• gastropod
• goldenrod
• isopod
• overawed

Kids Definition

lightning rod

noun

: a metal rod set up on a building or a ship and connected with the earth or water below to decrease the chances of damage from lightning