lightning-conductor

A tall building has a lightning-conductor on its roof.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A metallic rod or wire: "lightning-conductor" is a device consisting of a metal rod or wire that is attached to a building or structure and connected to the ground, designed to protect it from lightning strikes by safely conducting the electrical discharge into the earth.

Usage Examples

• (A metal rod on the roof to divert lightning safely.)
• (A protective device for buildings.)

Advanced Usage

• "to act as a lightning-conductor": figuratively, to attract and absorb criticism or controversy, protecting others from it.
  • The manager’s resignation acted as a lightning-conductor for the public’s anger. (He took the blame to shield the company.)

Variants and Related Words

• Lightning-rod (n): another term for "lightning-conductor," especially in American English.
  • They installed a lightning-rod on the roof. (Same device.)

Synonyms

• Lightning arrester: a device that protects electrical systems from lightning surges.
• Surge protector: a device that limits voltage spikes (though not specific to lightning).

Phrasal Verbs

• Conduct away: to channel or direct something (like electricity) away from a point.
  • The rod conducts the lightning away from the building. (Leads the electrical charge safely to the ground.)

Related Idioms

• A lightning rod for criticism: a person or thing that attracts negative attention or blame.
  • The new policy was a lightning rod for criticism. (It drew all the complaints.)