[torch] n, often attrib [ME torche, fr. OF, bundle of twisted straw or tow, torch, fr. (assumed) VL torca; akin to L torquere to twist--more at torture] (14c) 1: a burning stick of resinous wood or twist of tow used to give light and usu. carried in the hand: flambeau
2: something (as tradition, wisdom, or knowledge) likened to a torch as giving light or guidance
3: any of various portable devices for emitting an unusually hot flame--compare blowtorch
4. chiefly Brit: flashlight 2
5: incendiary 1a
[2]torch vt (1901): to set fire to with or as if with a torch