carries a torch
Loves without return
To carry a torch for someone is to harbor romantic feelings for them, especially unrequited or lingering love after a relationship has ended: He's still carrying a torch for his college girlfriend.
The image is of keeping a flame burning—hope that won't die.
Someone who carries a torch is a torchbearer of their own heartache.
- fanciesFeels attraction toward
- secret admirerUnknown person with feelings
- infatuationShort-lived intense attraction
- commitmentFirm pledge to act
- yearningIntense prolonged craving
guiding light · loyalty · fervor · nostalgia · admiration · hope · devotion · beacon · light the way · advocacy · flame · perseverance · heartbreak · pining · spark · still waters · steadfastness · zeal
carries a torchover it
No longer affected
moved on · let go · gotten over · indifferent · lost interest
carries a torchin a relationship
Committed to a partner
together · requited · two-way street · going steady · mutual attraction
carries a torchbears a grudge
despises · loathes · can't stand · hates · scorned
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