Torque in an electric bike refers to the rotational force that the motor applies to the rear wheel. It is the measurement of the ability of the eBike motor to rotate the back wheel of an electric bike. Higher torque will rotate the wheel easier and create more acceleration, especially from a stop, making it easier to get going. Torque is measured in newton meters (N m) and is a spec to check if you plan to ride a lot of hills and/or haul heavy loads (source: [REI Co-op](https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/how-to-choose-an-ebike.html), [Optibike High Performance E-Bikes](https://optibike.com/torque-electric-bike/), [Electric Ride Owner](https://electricrideowner.com/electric-bike-torque-the-ultimate-guide-to-ebike-torque/)).
Torque in literal meaning is the force on an arm at a distance from a center of rotation.
The definition applies to an electric bike as well. Torque in an electric bicycle is the force or the ability to rotate the rear wheel.
The higher the torque the easier it is to rotate the wheel of the electric bike and create more acceleration, mainly if the bike just comes from a stop.