Kandace is a variant spelling of Candace, a name with ancient roots. The name ultimately derives from the hereditary title of the queens of Ethiopia, mentioned in the New Testament (Acts 8:27) in reference to the queen of the Ethiopians. The title comes from Cushitic kdke, meaning "queen mother," and appears in Greek as Κανδάκη (Kandake), a spelling reflected in some Bible versions. Etymology and Historical Origin The title “Candace” was used for centuries by the rulers of the Kingdom of Kush (ancient Ethiopia), much like “Pharaoh” served as the title for Egyptian kings. In the New Testament, the Ethiopian eunuch baptized by Philip is described as a court official of the “Candace, queen of the Ethiopians,” highlighting the title's use in the ancient world. Following the Protestant Reformation, the name was adopted by Puritans as a given name, drawn directly from biblical references. Usage in English-Speaking Countries Kandace and its variants (such as Candice, Candis, and Candyce) began gaining popularity in English-speaking countries during the 20th century. The 1942 film Meet the Stewarts helped popularize the name by featuring a character named Candace. While Kandace remains a less common spelling than Candace or Candice, it is firmly established as a given name in the United States and other English-speaking nations. Cultural and Biblical Significance In the biblical narrative, the unnamed queen (identified only by her title) represents one of the earliest recorded instances of an African ruler in Christian scripture, underscoring the name's deep historical and cultural resonances. The name’s use in modern times reflects a blend of religious heritage and pop culture influence. Meaning: “Queen mother” (from Cushitic kdke) Origin: Cushitic (Ethiopia) via Greek and Latin Type: Variant of a title turned given name Usage regions: English-speaking countries, especially the United States