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

The district and Lamb's candidacy Arizona's 5th Congressional District covers the eastern part of the sprawling Phoenix suburbs of Maricopa County — Arizona's most populated — as well as Pinal County. — Saige Miller, NPR, 4 Oct. 2026

Tracy said his own candidacy will help other Illinois Republicans. — Olivia Olander, Chicago Tribune, 4 Oct. 2026

As Vanderslice unwittingly contributed to the story with some quotes, not realizing the tone and direction of the article, his candidacy was derailed and his credibility ruined. — Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 1 Oct. 2026

Different views on the topic A contrasting case for Hilton’s candidacy is that California needs a sharp break from current policies. — Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 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