Main Entry:

can·di·date

Pronunciation:

\ˈkan-də-ˌdāt, ˈka-nə-, -dət\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Latin candidatus, from candidatus clothed in white, from candidus white; from the white toga worn by candidates for office in ancient Rome

Date:

1600

1 a: one that aspires to or is nominated or qualified for an office, membership, or award <a candidate for governor> b: one likely or suited to undergo or be chosen for something specified <a candidate for surgery>2: a student in the process of meeting final requirements for a degree