Meaning & History
Candy is a diminutive of Candace, also influenced by the English word candy. As a given name, Candy emerged as an affectionate, informal variant of Candace, which itself derives from the hereditary title of the queens of Ethiopia mentioned in the New Testament (Acts 8:27).
Etymology and Roots
Candace originates from Cushitic kdke meaning "queen mother," adapted in Greek as Kandakē (Κανδάκη). After the Protestant Reformation, Puritans adopted Candace as a biblical name, and its diminutive Candy later became a standalone given name. The association with the sweet confection has also contributed to its charm, making it a popular choice in the 20th century, especially in English-speaking countries.
- Meaning: Diminutive of Candace, also influenced by word "candy"
- Origin: Diminutive of Candace (from Ethiopian title)
- Type: Feminine given name
- Usage Regions: English
Related Names