Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word carry a torch. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word carry a torch, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say carry a torch in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word carry a torch you have here. The definition of the word carry a torch will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition ofcarry a torch, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
From the metaphor of a burning flame, to keep a fire burning.
The association of a torch with love may date to the Greek and Roman tradition of a
wedding torch, lit in the bride’s hearth on her wedding night, then used to light the hearth in her new home. Such a torch is associated with the Greek god of marriage Hymenaios.
1941, “Jim”, Nelson Shawn (lyrics), James Caesar Petrillo and Edward Ross (music):
Someday, I know that Jim will up and leave me / But even if he does you can believe me / I'll go on carryin' the torch for Jim / I'll go on lovin' my Jim
1955 June 6, “Books: Mixed Fiction (review of The Twelve Pictures by Edith Simon)”, in Time, archived from the original on 2013-03-15:
Brunhilde, a kind of earth-mother goddess, carries a torch for her lost love.
2006 April 20, Jeannette Walls, “Are Simpson and Lachey still in love?”, in msnbc.com, archived from the original on 2006-04-23:
Lachey, for his part, seems to still carry a torch for his estranged wife.
Usage notes
Often used to characterize a situation in which a romantic relationship has ended, but where one partner still loves the other.
Considered by some to be dated, but still in wide usage.
