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
The nation's limited stockpiles of expensive weapon systems, including advanced missile interceptors, have become a lightning rod during the Iran war.
—CBS News, 14 May 2026
Without Levy there to run the club and act as the lightning rod for criticism, more questions have been asked of the Lewis family regarding their long-term plans.
—Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 14 May 2026
The project, now nearly three years into development, has become a lightning rod for the Charlotte region’s debate over technology growth, economic incentives and environmental sustainability.
—Charlotte Observer, 13 May 2026
In each of those years, at least two Cannes competition films were nominated for best picture—including the lightning rod that was Emilia Perez at the 77th Cannes Festival in 2024.
—Savannah Walsh, Vanity Fair, 8 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for lightning rod
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CBS News, 14 May 2026
Without Levy there to run the club and act as the lightning rod for criticism, more questions have been asked of the Lewis family regarding their long-term plans.
—Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 14 May 2026
The project, now nearly three years into development, has become a lightning rod for the Charlotte region’s debate over technology growth, economic incentives and environmental sustainability.
—Charlotte Observer, 13 May 2026
In each of those years, at least two Cannes competition films were nominated for best picture—including the lightning rod that was Emilia Perez at the 77th Cannes Festival in 2024.
—Savannah Walsh, Vanity Fair, 8 May 2026
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 20 May. 2026.
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