Candace

Candace is a feminine given name with ancient roots. Its early forms derive from Kandake, the title used for the ruling queen mothers of the Kingdom of Kush in Nubia. Classical sources Latinized the title as Candace, and the biblical text Acts 8:27 refers to “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians.” Through these classical and biblical associations, Candace entered English usage as a personal name.

In modern times, Candace is used primarily in English-speaking countries. It remains a common given name with several variant spellings, including Kandace. The name is generally regarded as feminine.

Notable people named Candace include Candace Cameron Bure, an American actress and producer; Candace Owens, an American conservative commentator; Candace Parker, a professional basketball player; Candace Bushnell, a writer known for Sex and the City; and Candace Nelson, a pastry chef and entrepreneur. These examples illustrate the name’s continued use across diverse fields.

The name Candace also appears in fiction and popular culture as a character name, reflecting its historical associations with royalty and leadership. Variants such as Kandace or Kandake are occasionally encountered in historical or genealogical contexts.

See also: Kandace, Kandake. The term Kandake is the original title from which Candace is derived, referring to the queen mothers of ancient Kush.