antorcha
/anˈtoɾt͡ʃa/feminine
The Spanish word for torch is antorcha.
Antorcha refers to a stick of wood or a similar implement with a flammable substance at one end that is set on fire. It is also used to refer to a ceremonial torch, such as the one used to carry the Olympic flame.
Meaning: stick of wood, etc., with one end soaked in a flammable substance and set on fire, similarly shaped implement with a replaceable supply of flammable material (noun)
Which one should you use?
While antorcha refers to a literal torch made with fire, the word linterna is used for a battery-powered flashlight.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of antorcha is antorchas. Because it is a feminine noun, you use the definite article las to say las antorchas (the torches).
How do you pronounce it?
/anˈtoɾtʃa/
Did you know?
- The word antorcha was likely borrowed from Old Occitan entorcha, which itself was a blend of Old French torche and the Latin-derived entorta.
- In some traditional Caribbean celebrations, antorchas are used as markers to guide people through the streets during night processions.
- Depending on the region, antorcha may be used to describe a celebratory firework or a flare used during festivals.
Examples in context
- Actualmente se fabrican lámparas eléctricas con forma de antorcha.Currently, torch-shaped electric lamps are being manufactured.This sentence shows the use of antorcha in the context of electric lamps.Tatoeba #10188206 by saverius, translation #11267146 by Luornu
- El sol es la antorcha, la lámpara del universo, si se halla en la región central es porque ésta es la mejor ubicación para iluminar los planetas.The sun is the torch, the lamp of the universe, if it is situated in the central region it's because this is the best place to illuminate the planets.This sentence uses antorcha as a metaphor for the sun.Tatoeba #1128959 by marcelostockle, translation #1129380 by marcelostockle
- ¿Dónde puedo encontrar una linterna?Where can I find a flashlight?
- ¿Tienes una lámpara de mano?Do you have a torch?
- El guarda forestal utilizó una antorcha para iluminar el área.The forest ranger used a torch to light up the area.
- Necesito una linterna eléctrica para acampar.I need an electric flashlight for camping.
Example conversation
Elena and Alejandro are exploring a dark cave.
- ElenaNo veo nada, ¿tienes una antorcha?I can't see anything, do you have a torch?
- AlejandroSí, Elena, tengo una antorcha aquí.Yes, Elena, I have a torch here.
- ElenaEnciéndela para poder caminar.Light it so we can walk.
- AlejandroEstá bien, ya está encendida.All right, it is now lit.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “torch” translations and entries antorcha, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries antorcha, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
