lightning rod

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The ending, which I won’t spoil here, has become a lightning rod of controversy that cannot be destroyed, no matter how much acrimonious electricity it attracts.

From Salon • Feb. 23, 2026

As prime minister, Oli became a lightning rod for protester fury.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

Not only is Shriver herself a lightning rod, but “A Better Life” is a novel about a torpedo of an issue: immigration.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 31, 2026

No matter what you think of Pratt, an unapologetic lightning rod who stubbornly defies categorization, you can’t argue his entertainment value.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 27, 2026

Mama, however, with her loud voice and take-no-lip approach, was their lightning rod.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover