carry a torch
Harbor unrequited feelings
To carry a torch for someone is to harbor romantic feelings for them, especially when the love is unrequited or the relationship has ended: He's still carrying a torch for his college girlfriend.
The image is of keeping a flame burning—hope or devotion that persists despite circumstances.
The phrase often implies longing that others consider excessive or futile.
Aching with prolonged desire
- lovelornUnhappy due to unreturned affection
- heartacheDeep emotional distress
- one-sidedUnfairly weighted toward one
- unreciprocatedNot given back
hopeless · unfulfilled · longing · yearning · smitten · lovesick · sighing · aching
Faithful commitment to another
- faithfulnessDevoted loyalty maintained
- dedicationWholehearted loyalty to purpose
- steadfastnessFirm loyal dedication
- constancyUnchanging faithfulness over time
commitment · fidelity · allegiance · enduring · unwavering · lasting · true love · remembrance
pining
Aching with prolonged desire
- lovelornUnhappy due to unreturned affection
- heartacheDeep emotional distress
- one-sidedUnfairly weighted toward one
unreciprocated · hopeless · unfulfilled · longing · yearning · smitten · lovesick · sighing · aching · wistful
loyalty
Faithful commitment to another
- faithfulnessDevoted loyalty maintained
- dedicationWholehearted loyalty to purpose
- steadfastnessFirm loyal dedication
constancy · commitment · fidelity · allegiance · enduring · unwavering · lasting · true love · remembrance · cherishing
- fire idiomsplay with fire, fight fire with fire, fan the flames, add fuel to fire, on fire