the man

The phrase "the man" has evolved in slang to represent figures of authority, control, or exceptional skill, often in a negative or admiring context.

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Definition

B2General Authority

(slang, informal)A figure or entity in a position of power or control, often seen as oppressive.

Example

  • I'm tired of working for the man and getting nowhere.

B2Employment

(slang, informal)One's employer or boss, often viewed negatively.

Example

  • The man is always watching us to make sure we don't slack off.

B1Admiration

(slang, informal)A term of respect or admiration for someone who is considered the best in a particular field.

Example

  • You fixed it! You're the man!

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "the man":

your manmy manman in blackblack manyoung manlittle manold manwhite manman among menbig mandog manthe onegovernment manbest mannight manupright manone guyugly manfancy manoh manmonkey manbody manman in motioncompany man