1. Doctrine, belief, or system: This is the most common meaning of "-ism." It refers to a set of beliefs, principles, or practices that characterize a particular group, philosophy, or ideology.
Examples:
* Capitalism: A system based on private ownership and free markets.
* Buddhism: A religion based on the teachings of Buddha.
* Feminism: A belief in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes.
2. Characteristic or manner: "-ism" can also denote a particular characteristic, manner, or style associated with a person, place, or thing.
Examples:
* Heroism: The quality of being brave and noble.
* Realism: A style of art that depicts things realistically.
* Chauvinism: Excessive patriotism or loyalty to a particular group.
3. Condition or state: In some cases, "-ism" indicates a condition or state, often a negative or undesirable one.
Examples:
* Alcoholism: A condition characterized by excessive alcohol consumption.
* Racism: Prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against a person or people on the basis of their membership in a particular racial or ethnic group.
* Nihilism: The belief that life is meaningless and that all values are baseless.
Therefore, the best meaning of "-ism" depends on the specific context and the word it is attached to. It's important to consider the surrounding words and the overall meaning of the sentence to determine the most accurate interpretation.