lightning conductor
( <主北美> 亦作 lightning rod)
noun
1- Brit. a metal rod or wire fixed to an exposed part of a building or other tall structure to divert lightning harmlessly into the ground〈英〉避雷导线, 避雷针。
1.1
- figurative a person or thing that attracts a lot of criticism, especially in order to divert attention from more serious issues or allow a more important public figure to appear blameless〈喻〉（为转移公众对严重问题的注意或掩护某一知名人士而代人受过的）替罪羊。