Main Entry: ¹torch

Pronunciation: \ˈtȯrch\

Function: noun

Usage: often attributive

Etymology: Middle English torche, from Anglo-French, from Vulgar Latin *torca, alteration of Latin torqua something twisted, collar of twisted metal, alteration of torques; akin to Latin torquēre to twist — more at torture

Date: 13th century

1 : a burning stick of resinous wood or twist of tow used to give light and usually carried in the hand : flambeau
2 : something (as tradition, wisdom, or knowledge) likened to a torch as giving light or guidance <pass the torch to the next generation>
3 : any of various portable devices for emitting an unusually hot flame — compare blowtorch
4 chiefly British : flashlight 2
5 : incendiary 1a