torch song

English

Etymology

From to carry a torch for (“to harbor feelings for”).

Noun

torch song (plural torch songs)

1. A song, often sentimental, lamenting an unrequited love; normally sung by a woman.
   • 2014, Michael Slowik, After the Silents: Hollywood Film Music in the Early Sound Era, 1926-1934, Columbia University Press, →ISBN, page 189:

     “Take Me Away” is a torch song about wanting to fall in love and be taken far from an immoral urban environment.

Related terms

• torch singer

Translations

song, often sentimental, lamenting an unrequited love

• German: Schmachtlied n, Schmachtsong m

Further reading

• torch song on Wikipedia.Wikipedia