Torchbearer: meaning, definitions and examples

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torchbearer

 

[ ˈtɔːrtʃˌbɛrər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

leadership role

A torchbearer is a person who carries a torch, especially during a ceremonial occasion or an event. Metaphorically, it represents someone who advocates for a particular cause or leads a movement.

Synonyms

advocate, champion, leader, pioneer.

Examples of usage

  • He was a torchbearer for environmental justice.
  • The athlete became a torchbearer in the Olympic Games.
  • As a torchbearer of freedom, she inspired many.
  • The organization sees itself as a torchbearer for social change.

Translations

Translations of the word "torchbearer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 portador de tocha

🇮🇳 चालक

🇩🇪 Fackelträger

🇮🇩 pembawa obor

🇺🇦 носій факела

🇵🇱 niesiączo ognia

🇯🇵 トーチベアラー

🇫🇷 porteur de flambeau

🇪🇸 portador de antorcha

🇹🇷 meşale taşıyıcısı

🇰🇷 봉송자

🇸🇦 حامل الشعلة

🇨🇿 nosič pochodně

🇸🇰 nosič pochodne

🇨🇳 火炬手

🇸🇮 nosilec bakle

🇮🇸 fakkeli bærandi

🇰🇿 шамшырақ көтеруші

🇬🇪 ტორჩათმყოფელი

🇦🇿 məşəl daşıyıcısı

🇲🇽 portador de antorcha

Etymology

The term 'torchbearer' originally comes from the literal meaning of a person who carries a torch, especially in a ceremonial or symbolic context. The word 'torch' itself has roots in Old French 'torche', which means a branching stick that holds flame, derived from Latin 'torca' meaning 'twisted thing' or 'to twist'. Over time, the term evolved to take on a figurative meaning, signifying someone who carries the light of knowledge, passion, or a cause. In various cultures, torchbearers symbolize guidance, hope, and the transmission of values or traditions, effectively connecting the historical and cultural significance of carrying a torch with the role of leadership and advocacy in contemporary society.