torch

carry a torch (for someone) and carry the torch (for someone)

Fig. to be in love with someone who is not in love with you; to brood over a hopeless love affair. John is carrying a torch for Jane. Is John still carrying a torch after all this time?

See also: carry

carry the torch 

1. Fig. to lead or participate in a (figurative) crusade. The battle was over, but John continued to carry the torch. If Jane hadn't carried the torch, no one would have followed, and the whole thing would have failed.

2. Go to carry a torch (for someone).

See also: carry

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carry a torch for somebody   (old-fashioned)

to secretly love someone who does not love you Graeme's been carrying a torch for Linda for years.

See also: carry

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pass the torch (to somebody)

to give responsibility to someone The president of the company announced his retirement, saying it was time to pass the torch to someone younger.

See also: pass