lightning rod

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lightning rod

A tall building has a lightning rod on its roof.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A metallic conductor attached to a high point on a structure, connected to the ground, designed to protect the building from lightning strikes by providing a safe path for the electrical discharge.
    • A person or thing that consistently attracts criticism, blame, or negative reactions, thereby diverting attention from others or more serious issues.
Usage Examples
  • Noun (Literal):
    • The old church's steeple was equipped with a copper lightning rod.
    • For safety, the engineer recommended installing a lightning rod on the barn.
  • Noun (Figurative):
    • As the spokesperson, he became a lightning rod for public anger over the policy.
    • The controversial issue served as a lightning rod, drawing all media attention away from the scandal.
Advanced Usage
  • "to act as a lightning rod for something": To function as a focal point that attracts a specific type of negative reaction.
    • Her outspoken comments acted as a lightning rod for criticism from traditionalists.
Variants and Related Words
  • Lightning conductor (n): A synonym for the literal meaning of a lightning rod, more common in British English.
  • Rod (n): A straight, thin bar of metal, wood, or another material.
Synonyms
  • Paratonnerre (n): The French term, used in some technical contexts.
  • Scapegoat (n): A person who is blamed for the wrongdoings, mistakes, or faults of others, especially for reasons of expediency. (Note: A "scapegoat" implies undeserved blame, while a "lightning rod" is a neutral descriptor for something that attracts reactions, which may or may not be deserved.)
  • Target (n): A person, object, or place selected as the aim of an attack or criticism.
Related Phrases
  • To draw fire: To attract criticism or attack.
    • The CEO's statement drew fire from environmental groups.
lightning rod

A tall building has a lightning rod on its roof.

Noun
  1. a metallic conductor that is attached to a high point and leads to the ground; protects the building from destruction by lightning
  2. someone who is a frequent target of negative reactions and serves to distract attention from another

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