Here are the most common ones:
1. Denoting a resemblance or inferior quality:
* This is the most common meaning of "-aster." It indicates something that resembles something else but is inferior in quality, skill, or authenticity.
* Examples:
* Poetaster: A bad poet.
* Tyrant -aster: A minor tyrant.
* Comedian -aster: A poor comedian.
* Master -aster: A fake master.
* Sophist -aster: A poor or dishonest sophist (a philosopher).
2. Denoting a kind of or belonging to:
* This meaning is less common but still present. It indicates a specific type or belonging to a specific group of something.
* Examples:
* Asterisk: A small star-shaped symbol.
* Chrysaster: A type of chrysanthemum with star-shaped flowers.
3. In astronomy:
* "-aster" is used in astronomy to denote a small, faint star or star-like object.
* Examples:
* Centauri A and B: These are the two brightest stars in the Centaurus constellation.
* Proxima Centauri: This is a faint red dwarf star that is the closest star to the Sun.
It's important to note that the meaning of "-aster" is often context-dependent. You will need to consider the entire word and its usage to understand the specific meaning.