[can.di.date] n [L candidatus, fr. candidatus clothed in white, fr. candidus white; fr. the white toga worn by candidates for office in ancient Rome] (1600) 1 a: one that aspires to or is nominated or qualified for an office, membership, or award b: one likely or suited to undergo or be chosen for something specified "a ~ for surgery"
2: a student in the process of meeting final requirements for a degree