'candidacy' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'candidatus,' where 'candidus' meant 'white' or 'shining,' referring to the white toga worn by candidates in ancient Rome.

'candidatus' transformed into the French word 'candidat,' and eventually became the modern English word 'candidate,' with 'candidacy' deriving from this.

Initially, it referred to the state of wearing a white toga, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of being a candidate in an election.