torch

¹torch

noun, often attributive \ˈtȯrch\

Definition of TORCH

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

Examples of TORCH

1. <in an insurance scam, the slumlord hired a torch to burn the tenement down>

Origin of TORCH

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

First Known Use: 13th century

Related to TORCH

Synonyms: firebug, incendiary, arsonist

Related Words: pyromaniac; flamer, igniter (also ignitor), immolator, inflamer, kindler

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Rhymes with TORCH

porch, scorch