candidacy

noun

can·​di·​da·​cy ˈkan-də-də-sē How to pronounce candidacy (audio)
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
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.
On Tuesday, Biss’ political director for that effort, state Sen. Robert Peters of Chicago, announced his candidacy for Kelly’s seat. Rick Pearson, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2025 The Mecklenburg County Republican Party and the only Republican members of Mecklenburg’s legislative delegation, Rep. Tricia Cotham and Sen. Vickie Sawyer, announced their support for her candidacy this week. Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 2025 Jokić made another languid but undeniable case for his best player in the world candidacy, finishing Game 5 with an efficient 44/15/5 line. Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 15 May 2025 Ron DeSantis is little more than a year removed from challenging Trump for the GOP presidential nomination only to get blown out in the Iowa caucuses and see his candidacy vanquished. David Catanese, Miami Herald, 14 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for candidacy

Word History

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 4 Jun. 2025.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!