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

For the rest of the world, the Colombian-born superstar became the torchbearer for a globally-minded groove, which transcended nation and language in songs like “Whenever, Wherever” and “Hips Don’t Lie.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 18, 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

A torchbearer for the 2012 London Olympics, Singh clocked several milestones during his running career, including reportedly becoming the first centenarian to complete a full marathon in 2011 in Toronto.

From BBC ● Jul. 15, 2025

The torchbearer pulled her cowl down and let it rest under her chin.

From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack

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