torchbearer

American  

[tawrch-bair-er] / ˈtɔrtʃˌbɛər ər /

noun

1. a person who carries a torch.

2. a leader in a movement, campaign, etc..

   a torchbearer of democracy.

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torchbearer British  

/ ˈtɔːtʃˌbɛərə /

noun

1. a person or thing that carries a torch

2. a person who leads or inspires

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Etymology

Origin of torchbearer

First recorded in 1530–40; torch ¹ + bearer

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

torchbearer

The late Justice Antonin Scalia was the doctrine’s pioneer, and its current torchbearer is Thomas, who is steeped in the academic literature that underpins originalist theory.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 10, 2026

Thousands of people waiting in a rainy Piazza del Duomo cheered as torchbearer Nicoletta Manni, an Italian ballerina, carried it into the square, over an hour behind schedule.

From Barron's ● Feb. 5, 2026

There has been some immediate discontent from Scottish Labour figures over this news – that after years being their sole torchbearer at Westminster, Murray has lasted barely a year as Scottish secretary.

From BBC ● Sep. 5, 2025

Snoop Dogg — rap icon, business mogul and king of brand deals — just landed a new gig: Olympic torchbearer.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 23, 2024

Marvin Worth was the lone torchbearer, a thorn in Hollywood’s side, holding true to the initial dream for almost twenty-five years, despite the taboo image of my father.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey

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