Lightning-rod definition

One that attracts criticism, often in such a way that criticism is diverted from something else.

A grounded metal rod placed high on a structure to prevent damage by conducting lightning to the ground.

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.

A person or thing that attracts controversy, strong feelings, etc. and diverts them from some other potential object or target.

A grounded metal rod placed high on a structure to conduct electrical current from a lightning strike directly to the ground, preventing the currents from injuring people or animals or from damaging objects. Lightning rods usually have a sharp, pointed tip, since electric lines of force are more highly concentrated around pointed objects, in this case increasing the attractiveness of the rod compared with other nearby objects.