'Candidate' definitions:

Definition of 'candidate'

From: WordNet
noun
A politician who is running for public office [syn: campaigner, candidate, nominee]
noun
Someone who is considered for something (for an office or prize or honor etc.) [syn: candidate, prospect]

Definition of 'Candidate'

From: GCIDE
  • Candidate \Can"di*date\, n. [L. Candidatus, n. (because candidates for office in Rome were clothed in a white toga.) fr. candidatus clothed in white, fr. candiduslittering, white: cf. F. candidat.] One who offers himself, or is put forward by others, as a suitable person or an aspirant or contestant for an office, privilege, or honor; as, a candidate for the office of governor; a candidate for holy orders; a candidate for scholastic honors. [1913 Webster]