candidacy

noun

can·​di·​da·​cy ˈkan-də-də-sē 

ˈka-nə-

plural candidacies

: 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

House races Craig's Senate candidacy creates an opening in the Second Congressional District, which Republicans have long wanted to flip. — Diana Paulsen, ABC News, 11 Aug. 2026

In announcing his candidacy before a cheering crowd, Giannoulias invoked an image of Chicago as a city where hard work and sacrifice pay off. — Adam Harrington, CBS News, 10 Aug. 2026

The union committed more than $2 million to independent expenditure groups supporting Bass’ candidacy in 2022, paying for television ads that ran in advance of the general election. — Los Angeles Times, 8 Aug. 2026

The governor has also stayed quiet on the candidacy of businessman James Fishback, one of the other high-profile Republicans running. — Paige Stevens, Miami Herald, 6 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

candid(ate) + -acy

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

candidacy

noun

can·​di·​da·​cy ˈkan-dəd-ə-sē 

ˈkan-əd-

plural candidacies

: the state of being a candidate