also: こか
noun
pine torch; torchlight; firebrand
Refers to a torch made of pine or other wood, used for illumination or as a signal. Often associated with traditional or historical settings.
夜道を歩くために炬火を手にした。
I held a pine torch to walk the night path.
noun
Used for a bonfire, especially in a traditional or ceremonial context. Cross-referenced with 篝火 (かがりび), which is more common for 'bonfire' in modern Japanese.
See also: 篝火 (かがりび)
祭りの夜、広場に大きな炬火が焚かれた。
On the night of the festival, a large bonfire was lit in the square.
The kanji 炬 means 'torch' or 'candle' and 火 means 'fire'. The word is a straightforward compound. The reading きょか is the standard on'yomi; こか is a rare alternative reading.