The term 'social suffix' refers to a set of three letter words that are commonly used to denote a person's occupation or social status. The three words are ISM, ITE, and IST. ISM is derived from the Greek word 'ismos' which means 'DOCTRINE' and is used to refer to a person who practices a certain DOCTRINE or belief. ITE is derived from the Latin word 'ite' which means 'goer' and is used to refer to a person who follows a certain practice or belief. IST is derived from the German word 'ist' which means 'one who is' and is used to refer to a person who is an expert in a certain field. All three words are commonly used to describe a person's occupation or social status.