Question of the Day #63

Every year, the seniors pass the torch to the juniors.

上記の文で、pass the torchの意味は？
In the sentence above, what does "pass the torch" mean?

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Write your answer in the Comments.

明日、ここに答えを書きます。
I will add the answer and other remarks here tomorrow.

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解答

意味： 英辞郎によると、


〔後継者などに〕バトンを渡す、バトンタッチする

注：慣用句の適訳が慣用句である珍しいケースですね。

Answer

According to Dictionary.com:

Relinquish responsibilities, a tradition, practice, or knowledge to another.

Etymology/語源

Online Etymology Dictionaryによると、

古代ギリシアの松明をバトンとして使った競争(lampadedromia)からくる隠喩である。松明競争の目的は、松明の火を消さずにゴールすることだったと言われている。

According to the Online Etymology Dictionary:

To pass the torch is an ancient metaphor from the Greek torch-races (lampadedromia) where the goal was to reach the finish line with the torch still burning.

Examples

• When the company's founder became too ill to continue, he passed the torch to his nephew.
• The president of the company announced his retirement, saying it was time to pass　the torch to someone younger.
• He is retiring and passing the torch on to his successor.
• She says she's ready to pass the torch.