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
His presence in the White House was also a lightning rod for far-right activists, including Laura Loomer, a firebrand right-wing commentator who is known to have Trump’s ear.
—Nik Popli, Time, 1 May 2025
In recent years, the area has become a lightning rod for DIY sorts—artisan cheesemakers, kombucha brewers, ceramicists, knife sharpeners.
—Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025
Town hall meetings are likely to continue acting as a lightning rod for those angry about the Trump administration's policies.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025
Biden's mental acuity while in office continues to be a lightning rod despite Trump taking office again in January.
—James Powel, USA Today, 22 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightning rod
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Nik Popli, Time, 1 May 2025
In recent years, the area has become a lightning rod for DIY sorts—artisan cheesemakers, kombucha brewers, ceramicists, knife sharpeners.
—Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025
Town hall meetings are likely to continue acting as a lightning rod for those angry about the Trump administration's policies.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025
Biden's mental acuity while in office continues to be a lightning rod despite Trump taking office again in January.
—James Powel, USA Today, 22 May 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 16 Jun. 2025.
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