- torch
- [[t]tɔ͟ː(r)tʃ[/t]]
torches, torching, torched1) N-COUNT A torch is a small electric light which is powered by batteries and which you can carry in your hand. [BRIT](in AM, use flashlight)2) N-COUNT A torch is a long stick with burning material at one end, used to provide light or to set things on fire.
They lit a torch and set fire to the chapel's thatch.
...a torch-lit march for peace.
3) N-COUNT: supp N A torch is a device that produces a hot flame and is used for tasks such as cutting or joining pieces of metal.→ See also blowtorchThe gang worked for up to ten hours with acetylene torches to open the vault.
4) VERB If someone torches a building or vehicle, they set fire to it deliberately.[V n] The rioters torched the local library...
[V n] Cars and trucks have been torched, bottles and bricks thrown.
5) PHRASE: V inflects, PHR n If you say that someone is carrying a torch for someone else, you mean that they secretly admire them or love them.He has always carried a torch for Barbara.
6) PHRASE: V inflects, usu PHR for/of n If you say that someone is carrying the torch of a particular belief or movement, you mean that they are working hard to ensure that it is not forgotten and continues to grow stronger.This group aims to carry the torch for the millions who demonstrated and the thousands who died...
Since his death in 1985 his widow has carried the torch of his Stalinist legacy.
English dictionary. 2008.
