претендент

Noun

 * 1) pretender, claimant, aspirant

Noun

 * 1) claimant (to, upon), aspirant (to), applicant one who applies

Usage notes
The word "pretender" in English is used mainly in historical contexts to refer to claimants to a throne, often illegitimate and with a negative connotation. In Russian претенде́нт means more broadly "candidate" or "aspirant" and has a neutral connotation.

Etymology
Borrowed from, ultimately from.

Noun

 * 1) pretender, claimant, aspirant
 * 2) challenger, contender
 * 3) applicant