LIGHTNING ROD


Meaning of LIGHTNING ROD in English

Function: noun

Date: 1773

1 : a grounded metallic rod set up on a structure (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. >

Merriam Webster Collegiate English Dictionary.      Merriam Webster - Энциклопедический словарь английского языка.