# Candace

/ˈkændəs/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/candace
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a title used for the queens or queen mothers of the ancient African kingdom of Kush. It is also a common modern name.

For teachers: the hereditary title for queens and queen mothers of the ancient Ethiopian or Kushite kingdom of Meroë. Often appears in historical or biblical contexts as a proper name or title.

## Examples

- The ancient Candace led her people with great strength.
- Historical records from the kingdom of Kush describe the Candace as a powerful female ruler who often held military authority.
- In the New Testament, the conversion of an official serving the Candace of Ethiopia marks an early expansion of the faith into the African continent.

## Usage notes

- When referring to the historical title, it is often treated as a proper noun and capitalised.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.