<p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>a person who seeks an office, honor, etc.: a candidate for governor.</li><li>a person who is selected by others as a contestant for an office, honor, etc.</li><li>a person who is deserving of or seems destined for a certain end or fate: Such a reckless spender is a candidate for the poorhouse.</li><li>a student studying for a degree: Candidates for the B.A. will have to meet certain minimum requirements.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used without object) to become a candidate for service as a new minister of a church; preach before a congregation that is seeking a new minister.</li></ul>