I. ˈkan(d)ə̇ˌdāt, -aandə̇-; esp freq in S -_də̇t; rapid also -nˌdāt, -ndə̇t; usu -ād., -ə̇d.+V noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin candidatus, from candidatus clothed in white, from candidus white + -atus -ate; from the white toga worn by candidates for office in ancient Rome — more at candid
1. : one that presents himself or is presented by others often formally or officially as suitable for and aspiring to an office, position, membership, right, or honor — usually used with for
a candidate for governor
a candidate for the board of directors
candidates for admission to the club
2. : one that is likely or worthy to gain a post, position, or distinction or to come to a certain place, end, or fate : choice
I am not ambitious of ridicule — not absolutely a candidate for disgrace — Edmund Burke
a candidate for the penitentiary
this play is a candidate for the prize
3. : a student taking a course of study leading to a degree ; especially : one in the process of meeting final requirements
a candidate for the Ph.D
II. intransitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
: to be a candidate
intends to candidate for the new position
especially : to preach on invitation in a church preparing to call a new minister
III. adjective
Etymology: Latin candidatus
obsolete : dressed in white