| torch | A light or luminary formed of some combustible substance, as of resinous wood; a large candle or flambeau, or a lamp giving a large, flaring flame. "They light the nuptial torch." (Milton) Torch thistle. <botany> See Thistle. Origin: OE. Torche, F. Torche a torch, rag, wisp, pad; probably from a derivative of L. Torquere, tortum, to twist, because twisted like a rope; cf. F. Torcher to rub, wipe, It. Topcia a torch, torciare to wrap, twist, OF. Torse a torse. Cf. Torture. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
|---|---|
| TORCH syndrome | <syndrome> A group of infections with similar clinical manifestations, although symptoms may vary in degree and time of appearance: toxoplasmosis, other infections, rubella, cytomegalovirus infection, and herpes simplex. These infections might be associated with underlying HIV infection. (05 Mar 2000) |
| torchwood | <botany> The inflammable wood of certain trees (Amyris balsamifera, A. Floridana, etc); also, the trees themselves. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
| torchwort | <botany> The common mullein, the stalks of which, dipped in suet, anciently served for torches. Synonym: torch, and hig-taper. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
| water torch | <botany> The common cat-tail (Typha latifolia), the spike of which makes a good torch soaked in oil. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
|---|