Candi

Candi is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Candace or Candice, which comes from an ancient Ethiopian royal title meaning 'queen mother' or 'clear, pure, sincere.' The spelling variation with an 'i' instead of 'y' became popular in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1950s through 1970s. Candi has a distinctly sweet, playful quality, intentionally evoking associations with candy and sweetness. The name has a vintage charm today, strongly associated with mid-century American pop culture. While less commonly given to newborns in recent decades, it represents a time when short, cheerful names with obvious pleasant associations were fashionable. Some parents still choose it for its upbeat, friendly character and nostalgic appeal.

Pronounced KAN-dee.

As of October 2026, Candi ranked #15748 in US births in 2022 SSA, peaked at #527 in 1980.