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3. carry a torch for

carry a torch for

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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, torch

carry a torch for

Also, carry the torch for. Continue to feel the pain of unreciprocated love for, as in Jane has been carrying the torch for Bill for at least a year. The torch in this term alludes to the heat of love or passion. [1920s]

See also: carry, torch