Definition of lightning rod

The term "lightning rod" originated in the late 1700s when a British scientist named Benjamin Franklin conducted a series of experiments to understand the effects of lightning. Franklin hypothesized that by installing a metal rod on the top of a building and connecting it to the ground, lightning would be attracted to the rod rather than the building itself. This would prevent the building from suffering damage from lightning strikes. The term "lightning rod" was coined to describe this device, as it resembled a rod that would draw the lightning, much like a rod used to draw away rodents. The idea soon spread, and by the end of the 18th century, lightning rods had become a common feature of buildings, particularly in areas prone to frequent thunderstorms. Today, lightning rods, also known as lightning conductors, serve as an effective and essential safety measure during thunderstorms.