lightning rod Hear it!

lightning rod definition

☆ lightning rod

  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

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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