carry a torch for somebody

carry a torch for (one)

To be in love with one, especially secretly and/or unrequitedly. I've carried a torch for her since high school, but I've never been able to tell her how I feel. Susan carried a torch for him for years after they broke up.See also: carry, torch

carry a ˈtorch for somebody

be in love with somebody, especially somebody who does not love you in return: She’s been carrying a torch for him for years.See also: carry, somebody, torch