Candace: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing".It derives from the Greek word "kdke / ktke > k(n)dke > kandákē".
Candace has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Candace
Quick facts about Candace
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing.” Kandake or Kentake, also Candace, was the title for queens and queen mothers of Kush’s ancient African Kingdom, also known as Nubia and Ethiopia. In the New Testament of the Christian Bible, a treasury official of “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians” returning from a trip to Jerusalem was baptized by Philip the Evangelist. A legend in the Alexander Romance claims that Candace of Meroë fought Alexander the Great. Alexander never attacked Nubia and never attempted to move further south than the oasis of Siwa in Egypt.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
kdke / ktke > k(n)dke > kandákē
How to Pronounce Candace
Candace is pronounced /ˈkændɪs/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Candac-e
Say it like: "KANDEEHS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across english, and ancient Greek (Latinized) speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
englishancient Greek (Latinized)
Frequently Asked Questions About Candace
What does the name Candace mean?
Candace means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing.” Kandake or Kentake, also Candace, was the title for queens and queen mothers of Kush’s ancient African Kingdom, also known as Nubia and Ethiopia. In the New Testament of the Christian Bible, a treasury official of “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians” returning from a trip to Jerusalem was baptized by Philip the Evangelist. A legend in the Alexander Romance claims that Candace of Meroë fought Alexander the Great. Alexander never attacked Nubia and never attempted to move further south than the oasis of Siwa in Egypt.". The name comes from kdke / ktke > k(n)dke > kandákē. In its original form, the name derives from kandákē (κανδάκη). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Candace for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing.” Kandake or Kentake, also Candace, was the title for queens and queen mothers of Kush’s ancient African Kingdom, also known as Nubia and Ethiopia. In the New Testament of the Christian Bible, a treasury official of “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians” returning from a trip to Jerusalem was baptized by Philip the Evangelist. A legend in the Alexander Romance claims that Candace of Meroë fought Alexander the Great. Alexander never attacked Nubia and never attempted to move further south than the oasis of Siwa in Egypt." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Candace's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Candace?
Candace is a greek name. The name traces back to kdke / ktke > k(n)dke > kandákē. The original form kandákē (κανδάκη) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Candace spread to become common in english, ancient Greek (Latinized). The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing.” Kandake or Kentake, also Candace, was the title for queens and queen mothers of Kush’s ancient African Kingdom, also known as Nubia and Ethiopia. In the New Testament of the Christian Bible, a treasury official of “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians” returning from a trip to Jerusalem was baptized by Philip the Evangelist. A legend in the Alexander Romance claims that Candace of Meroë fought Alexander the Great. Alexander never attacked Nubia and never attempted to move further south than the oasis of Siwa in Egypt." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Candace a boy or girl name?
Candace is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Candace has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing.” Kandake or Kentake, also Candace, was the title for queens and queen mothers of Kush’s ancient African Kingdom, also known as Nubia and Ethiopia. In the New Testament of the Christian Bible, a treasury official of “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians” returning from a trip to Jerusalem was baptized by Philip the Evangelist. A legend in the Alexander Romance claims that Candace of Meroë fought Alexander the Great. Alexander never attacked Nubia and never attempted to move further south than the oasis of Siwa in Egypt." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Candace?
Candace is pronounced "/ˈkændɪs/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Candace is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, ancient Greek (Latinized), where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Candace can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root kdke / ktke > k(n)dke > kandákē influences how Candace sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Candace?
Candace is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Candace offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Candace's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing.” Kandake or Kentake, also Candace, was the title for queens and queen mothers of Kush’s ancient African Kingdom, also known as Nubia and Ethiopia. In the New Testament of the Christian Bible, a treasury official of “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians” returning from a trip to Jerusalem was baptized by Philip the Evangelist. A legend in the Alexander Romance claims that Candace of Meroë fought Alexander the Great. Alexander never attacked Nubia and never attempted to move further south than the oasis of Siwa in Egypt." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Candace holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Candace commonly used?
Candace is common in english and ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Candace found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing.” Kandake or Kentake, also Candace, was the title for queens and queen mothers of Kush’s ancient African Kingdom, also known as Nubia and Ethiopia. In the New Testament of the Christian Bible, a treasury official of “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians” returning from a trip to Jerusalem was baptized by Philip the Evangelist. A legend in the Alexander Romance claims that Candace of Meroë fought Alexander the Great. Alexander never attacked Nubia and never attempted to move further south than the oasis of Siwa in Egypt." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Candace into their naming traditions. A child named Candace will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Candace is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Candace?
Candace carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek noun “kandákē (κανδάκη),” which in turn derives from the Egyptian (Meroitic) root “Kdke / Ktke > K(N)Dke,” meaning “glowing.” Kandake or Kentake, also Candace, was the title for queens and queen mothers of Kush’s ancient African Kingdom, also known as Nubia and Ethiopia. In the New Testament of the Christian Bible, a treasury official of “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians” returning from a trip to Jerusalem was baptized by Philip the Evangelist. A legend in the Alexander Romance claims that Candace of Meroë fought Alexander the Great. Alexander never attacked Nubia and never attempted to move further south than the oasis of Siwa in Egypt." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Candace originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Candace sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Candace often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.