carry a torch for

1. To be infatuated with: “Frank may be engaged to Helen, but I think he still carries a torch for Laura.”

Idioms and Phrases

Also, carry the torch for . Continue to feel the pain of unreciprocated love for, as in Jane has been carrying the torch for Bill for at least a year . The torch in this term alludes to the heat of love or passion. [1920s]