lightning rod

• Varilla metálica instalada en un edificio para protegerlo de los rayos, conduciendo la descarga eléctrica de forma segura al suelo. En sentido figurado, persona u objeto que atrae críticas, polémicas o atención negativa.

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.

   pararrayos

   • 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.

   pararrayos (figurado)

   • 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.