Torch: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.