lightning rod

• Ein metallischer Stab, der auf einem Gebäude angebracht ist, um es vor Blitzeinschlägen zu schützen und die elektrische Entladung sicher in die Erde zu leiten. Im übertragenen Sinne eine Person oder Sache, die Kritik, Streit oder negative Aufmerksamkeit auf sich zieht.

A metal rod mounted on a building to protect it from lightning strikes by directing electrical discharge safely into the ground. Figuratively, it refers to a person or thing that attracts criticism, controversy, or negative attention.

1. Physical objectB2formal

   A metal rod mounted on a building to protect it from lightning by directing the electrical discharge into the ground.

   Blitzableiter

   • The church installed a lightning rod on its steeple.
   • Lightning rods are essential for tall buildings in storm-prone areas.
   • The old house had a copper lightning rod on the roof.

2. Figurative meaningC1informal

   A person or thing that attracts criticism, controversy, or negative attention.

   Blitzableiter

   • The politician became a lightning rod for public anger over taxes.
   • The controversial policy acted as a lightning rod for debate.
   • He was a lightning rod for criticism within the company.