lightning rod Hear it!

lightning rod Definition

☆ lightning rod

noun

  1. a tall metal pole placed high on a structure, as a building or tower, and attached to a ground so as to attract lightning and protect the structure from damage
  2. a person or thing that attracts controversy, strong feelings, etc. and diverts them from some other potential object or target

lightning rod Usage Examples

Converse of object

become: Desiring freedom, his case instead became the lightning rod for sectional bitterness and hostility that was only resolved by war. ' GoCityKids.