Torch: meaning, definitions and examples

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torch

[tɔːtʃ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

light source

A torch is a portable light source, typically a battery-powered stick with a bulb or a flame at one end.

Synonyms

flashlight, lantern, light.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
torch	Primarily used in British English to refer to a portable handheld light source; can also refer to a flaming stick for lighting or as a weapon. He used a torch to find his keys in the dark. The explorer carried a torch through the cave.
flashlight	Used in American English to describe a small handheld electric light powered by batteries. Suitable for camping, emergencies, or finding things in the dark. She grabbed a flashlight when the power went out. They used a flashlight to check the car engine at night.
lantern	A portable lighting device that can be powered by a candle, oil, or batteries; often used for camping or decoration. They hung a lantern outside the tent to light up the camping area. The old lantern added a warm glow to the porch.
light	A broad term that can refer to any source of illumination, whether natural or artificial. Can be used in many different contexts, including indoor and outdoor settings. He turned on the light to read his book. The morning light streamed through the curtains.

Examples of usage

You can use a torch to light up the dark room.
She used a torch to find her way through the forest.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sports

In sports, a torch is a long stick with a flame at one end, used in relay races to pass the flame from one runner to another.

Synonyms

baton, flame.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
torch	In the context of American English, it primarily refers to a flashlight, which is a portable battery-powered electric lamp. He used a torch to search for his lost wallet under the bed The hikers were grateful for the torch when the sun went down
baton	Typically refers to a stick or club, often used by police or in relay races. It can also refer to a staff used by a conductor to direct an orchestra. The police officer held a baton during the parade She handed off the baton smoothly during the relay race
flame	Denotes the visible, gaseous part of a fire. Used in both literal fire situations and metaphorically to describe intense emotions or love. The campfire's flame danced in the night He felt a flame of anger rise within him

Word

Description / Examples

torch

In the context of American English, it primarily refers to a flashlight, which is a portable battery-powered electric lamp.

He used a torch to search for his lost wallet under the bed
The hikers were grateful for the torch when the sun went down

baton

Typically refers to a stick or club, often used by police or in relay races. It can also refer to a staff used by a conductor to direct an orchestra.

The police officer held a baton during the parade
She handed off the baton smoothly during the relay race

flame

Denotes the visible, gaseous part of a fire. Used in both literal fire situations and metaphorically to describe intense emotions or love.

The campfire's flame danced in the night
He felt a flame of anger rise within him

Examples of usage

The athlete carried the torch as he ran around the track.
The torch was passed smoothly from one runner to the next.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

burning

To torch something means to set it on fire deliberately.

Synonyms

burn, ignite, incinerate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
torch	Used mainly to refer to a portable light source that uses a flame or battery. It can also refer to setting something on fire deliberately, especially in a negative or criminal context. He used a torch to find his way in the dark cave. The building was torched by the vandals.
ignite	Means to start a fire or cause something to catch fire. Often used in a literal sense but can also describe initiating a process or idea. He used a match to ignite the campfire. Her speech ignited a lot of interest in the subject.
incinerate	Specifically means to destroy something completely using intense heat, typically in a controlled environment like a furnace or incinerator. Often used in industrial or waste management contexts. The waste was incinerated at the facility. Old documents were incinerated to prevent information leaks.
burn	Refers to the process of being on fire or causing something to be on fire. It can also be used metaphorically to describe strong emotions or sensations. The firewood will burn for hours. She felt her cheeks burn with embarrassment.

Examples of usage

The arsonist torched the building in the middle of the night.
He torched the evidence before the police arrived.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'torch' comes from the Latin term 'torcha' meaning 'twisted thing', referring to a rolled-up piece of cloth.
In Old French, 'torche' referred to a burning taper or stick, evolving into the English word we use today.
Originally, torches were made with natural materials, such as wood and cloth soaked in flammable substances.

History

Torches have been used since ancient times, serving as a primary light source for humans before the invention of electricity.
In ancient Rome, torches were often used in public ceremonies and trials, symbolizing enlightenment and truth.
The Olympic torch relay, which symbolizes peace and unity, has its roots in the ancient Olympic Games in Greece.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, a torch symbolizes knowledge and enlightenment, often seen in ceremonies and rituals.
The Statue of Liberty holds a torch representing freedom and illumination, welcoming visitors to the United States.
Torches are a common element in literary works, symbolizing hope, guidance, or the search for knowledge.

Science

A traditional torch’s flame produces light through a process called combustion, where fuel reacts with oxygen.
Modern torches often use batteries to provide light through LED technology, which is more efficient and safer than flames.
Torches can be used in various scientific applications, such as welding or metalworking, where controlled flame is essential.

Pop Culture

Torches are commonly featured in adventure movies, where characters use them to explore dark caves or mysterious places.
In video games, torches can symbolize progress and discovery, often lighting the way to new quests.
Festivals and celebrations, like Midsummer, often include torch-lit parades to create a festive atmosphere and celebrate community spirit.

Translations

Translations of the word "torch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tocha

🇮🇳 मशाल

🇩🇪 Fackel

🇮🇩 obor

🇺🇦 факел

🇵🇱 pochodnia

🇯🇵 たいまつ (taimatsu)

🇫🇷 torche

🇪🇸 antorcha

🇹🇷 meşale

🇰🇷 횃불 (hoetbul)

🇸🇦 مشعل

🇨🇿 pochodeň

🇸🇰 pochodeň

🇨🇳 火炬 (huǒjù)

🇸🇮 bakla

🇮🇸 blys

🇰🇿 алау

🇬🇪 ჩირაღდანი (chiraghdani)

🇦🇿 məşəl

🇲🇽 antorcha

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,286, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
10283 helmet
10284 benches
10285 marrying
10286 torch
10287 handkerchief
10288 fastest
10289 wonderfully
...