lightning rod
"Lightning rod" originally refers to a device used to protect structures from lightning strikes and is also used metaphorically to describe someone or something that attracts criticism or controversy.
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Definition
B2Engineering
(technical)A metal conductor installed on a structure to divert lightning strikes safely into the ground.
Example
- The tall building was equipped with a lightning rod to prevent damage during thunderstorms.
C1Metaphor
(figurative)A person or thing that attracts strong criticism or controversy, diverting attention from others.
Example
- The new policy became a lightning rod for public discontent.
- As the spokesperson, she often acted as a lightning rod for the company's critics.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "lightning rod":
lightning boltlightning strikelightning mapperlightning in a bottlelightning fast