lightning rod
noun
1
: a grounded metallic rod set up on a structure (such as a building) to protect it from lightning
2
: one that serves to divert attack from another
3
: one that is a frequent target of criticism or focus of controversy
she has become a convenient lightning rod for voters' discontent with law-and-order issues—
Aric Press et al.
Aric Press et al.Examples of lightning rod in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Diversity, equity and inclusion, known as DEI, has become a lightning rod across all sectors.
—Taryn Palumbo, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
Both the Diddy and Epstein sagas have captivated public attention and become lightning rods for disinformation and conspiracy theories.
—Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 9 July 2025
But the state’s chronically high electric rates combined with the disappearance of trust between regulators and utilities has transformed PURA from political backwater to lightning rod and Republican criticism of Lamont’s decision was immediate.
—Edmund H. Mahony, Hartford Courant, 30 June 2025
Before June 8, the skilled and respected ABC News television journalist Terry Moran was neither a household name nor political lightning rod.
—Steven Levy, Wired News, 27 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightning rod
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Taryn Palumbo, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
Both the Diddy and Epstein sagas have captivated public attention and become lightning rods for disinformation and conspiracy theories.
—Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 9 July 2025
But the state’s chronically high electric rates combined with the disappearance of trust between regulators and utilities has transformed PURA from political backwater to lightning rod and Republican criticism of Lamont’s decision was immediate.
—Edmund H. Mahony, Hartford Courant, 30 June 2025
Before June 8, the skilled and respected ABC News television journalist Terry Moran was neither a household name nor political lightning rod.
—Steven Levy, Wired News, 27 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightning rod
Cite this Entry
“Lightning rod.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lightning%20rod. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share