carry the torch for

Variant of torch

torch definition

torch (tôrc̸h)

noun

  1. a portable light consisting of a long piece of resinous wood, or twisted tow dipped in tallow, etc., flaming at one end; link; flambeau
  2. anything considered as a source of enlightenment, illumination, inspiration, etc. the torch of science
  3. any of various portable devices for producing a very hot flame, used in welding, burning off paint, etc.
  4. Brit. a flashlight

Etymology: ME < OFr torche < VL *torca, twisted object, for L torqua < torquere, to twist: see torsion

transitive verb

☆ Informal to set fire to, as in arson
torch Idioms

carry a torch for

or carry the torch for☆
to be in love with (someone), esp. without having one's love returned

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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