Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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.

Source : WordNet®

candidate
     n 1: a politician who is running for public office [syn: {campaigner},
           {nominee}]
     2: someone who is considered for something (for an office or
        prize or honor etc.) [syn: {prospect}]