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
McSweeney, the departed chief of staff, was often the lightning rod on some of those controversies.
From BBC • Feb. 10, 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
His shovel smoked as he raised it above his head like a lightning rod and used it to direct the bolts.
From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda
