lightning arrester

American  

noun

1. a device for preventing damage to radio, telephonic, or other electric equipment from lightning or other high-voltage currents, using spark gaps to carry the current to the ground without passing through the device.

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lightning arrester British  

noun

1. a device that protects electrical equipment, such as an aerial, from an excessive voltage resulting from a lightning discharge or other accidental electric surge, by discharging it to earth

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Etymology

Origin of lightning arrester

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

lightning arrester

A lightning arrester no bigger than a quart-size fruit jar receives the bolt, discharges it harmlessly through its coils.

From Time Magazine Archive

It includes the local wiring within the premises of the subscriber and also the lightning arrester and other protective devices, if such exist.

From Cyclopedia of Telephony & Telegraphy Vol. 1 A General Reference Work on Telephony, etc. etc. by Kempster Miller

Don't fail to use a lightning arrester, or better, a lightning switch, for your receiving set.

From The Radio Amateur's Hand Book by A. Frederick (Archie Frederick) Collins

Incidentally, radio antennae should be properly grounded and have an approved lightning arrester.

From If You're Going to Live in the Country by Frank Lieberman

Explain the reason for placing an impedance in connection with the lightning arrester.

From Cyclopedia of Telephony & Telegraphy Vol. 1 A General Reference Work on Telephony, etc. etc. by Kempster Miller