candidacy
UK: ˈkændɪdəsi | US: ˈkændɪdəsi
n. the state or period of being a candidate in an election or for a position
candidacy = candid<white, pure> + acy<noun suffix>
- candid (from Latin candidus, meaning "white, pure, honest") → Reflects the historical association of purity and honesty with political candidates (Roman candidates wore white togas).
- acy (noun-forming suffix from Latin -atia or French -acie) → Denotes a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Roman political culture, where candidatus (literally "clothed in white") referred to office-seekers who wore bleached togas to symbolize integrity. Over time, candidacy evolved to signify the status of seeking a position, retaining the root’s connotation of openness but losing its literal color association.
Her candidacy for mayor gained widespread support.
He announced his candidacy in a televised speech.
The committee reviewed her candidacy thoroughly.
Early polls favored his candidacy over the incumbent.
Financial scandals undermined his candidacy.