1. Human being, male: This is the most common meaning of "-man". It indicates a person, specifically a male person. Examples include:
* Fireman: A man who fights fires.
* Superman: A man with extraordinary powers.
* Workman: A man who works with his hands.
2. Person, regardless of gender: In some cases, "-man" can be used to refer to a person of any gender. This is becoming more common in modern English, particularly when referring to occupations. Examples include:
* Policeman: Now often replaced with "police officer".
* Chairman: Now often replaced with "chairperson" or "chair".
3. Place of residence or origin: In some cases, "-man" indicates a place of residence or origin. This is often used to describe a particular group of people. Examples include:
* Englishman: A person from England.
* New Yorker: A person from New York City.
4. Other specific meanings: In some words, "-man" has a specific meaning related to the word's history or origin. These meanings are less common and might require specific context to understand. Examples include:
* Statesman: A person skilled in government affairs.
* Freeman: A person who is free, not a slave.
It's important to consider the context of the word when interpreting the meaning of "-man". If you are unsure, it is always best to consult a dictionary.