Candidest

/ˈkændɪdɪst/ adjective

Definition

The superlative form of candid, meaning the most honest and straightforward without hiding anything.

Etymology

From Latin candidus meaning 'white' or 'shining,' which evolved to mean 'pure' and then 'frank' in English. The superlative suffix -est was added to create the most intense form of the adjective.

Kelly Says

The Romans originally used 'candidus' to describe white togas worn by political candidates—the idea being that a candidate wearing white was showing they had 'nothing to hide,' which is why candid eventually came to mean honest!

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