Kandydat

Kandydat is a noun in Polish that refers to a person who seeks to obtain a specific position, office, or admission to a program. The term is commonly used in political and recruitment contexts, but can also apply to applicants for scholarships, programs, or jobs. In everyday language, a prospective participant or applicant is often described as a kandydat.

The word has gendered and plural forms: the masculine singular kandydat, the feminine kandydatka, the plural kandydaci (masculine or mixed gender) and kandydatki (feminine). Related terms include kandydatura (the candidacy or the act of seeking a position) and kandydować (to run for office or to apply/stand as a candidate).

Etymology and history: kandydat derives from Latin candidatus, meaning "clothed in white" or "white-robed," a label historically associated with individuals presenting themselves for public office in ancient Rome. Through Latin and other languages, the term entered Polish and modern usage retained its reference to someone who presents themselves for election, appointment, or selection.

Political and electoral use: in politics, a kandydat runs in elections as a candidate for a particular seat or office (for example, kandydat na prezydenta or kandydat na posła). In administrative or organizational contexts, kandydat is someone who has submitted a candidacy for a post, program, or scholarship and may undergo a selection or screening process. The specifics of registration, nomination, and requirements vary by jurisdiction and institution.