candidacy

noun

can·​di·​da·​cy ˈkan-də-də-sē How to pronounce candidacy (audio)
ˈka-nə-
plural candidacies
Synonyms of candidacynext
: the state of being a candidate
he is expected to announce his candidacy

Examples of candidacy in a Sentence

He withdrew his candidacy after the scandal damaged his reputation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One night in 1972 in Beverly Hills the political and Hollywood A-list gathered at actress Diahann Carrol’s house to celebrate Shirley Chisholm’s presidential candidacy. Literary Hub, 20 Mar. 2026 An Institute of Governmental Studies poll in August gauged interest in the potential candidacy of Newsom and Harris. Taryn Luna, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2026 Ziraix said common mistakes candidates make is failing to complete the entire declaration of candidacy or to bring their voter registration verification form. Barbara Hoberock, Oklahoma Voice, 19 Mar. 2026 Her candidacy has focused on her working-class roots and role as a caretaker for a disabled sister. Alice Yin, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for candidacy

Word History

Etymology

candid(ate) + -acy

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of candidacy was in 1693

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Candidacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/candidacy. Accessed 25 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

candidacy

noun
can·​di·​da·​cy ˈkan-dəd-ə-sē How to pronounce candidacy (audio)
ˈkan-əd-
plural candidacies
: the state of being a candidate

More from Merriam-Webster on candidacy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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