n. [ OE. torche, F. torche a torch, rag, wisp, pad; probably from a derivative of L. torquere, tortum, to twist, because twisted like a rope; cf. F. torcher to rub, wipe, It. topcia a torch, torciare to wrap, twist, OF. torse a torse. Cf. Torture. ] A light or luminary formed of some combustible substance, as of resinous wood; a large candle or flambeau, or a lamp giving a large, flaring flame. [ 1913 Webster ]

They light the nuptial torch. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]

[ 1913 Webster ]

Torch thistle. (Bot.) See under Thistle. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. One whose office it is to carry a torch. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. One who gives light with a torch, or as if with a torch. [ Obs. ] Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. The light of a torch, or of torches. Also adjectively; as, a torchlight procession. [ 1913 Webster ]

[ F. torchon a kind of coarse napkin. ] a simple thread lace worked upon a pillow with coarse thread; also, a similar lace made by machinery. [ 1913 Webster ]

[ F. papier torchon. ] Paper with a rough surface; esp., handmade paper of great hardness for the use of painters in water colors. [ Webster 1913 Suppl. ]

. A race by men carrying torches, as in ancient Greece. [ Webster 1913 Suppl. ]

n. one who sings torch songs. [ PJC ]

n. a popular song with a sentimental theme of unrequited love or other form of unhappiness. [ PJC ]

n. (Bot.) The inflammable wood of certain trees (Amyris balsamifera, Amyris Floridana, etc.); also, the trees themselves. [ 1913 Webster ]