what does being a "liberal" really meant?

Classical liberalism and the modern concept of liberal aren't really related.

When people say liberal vs conservative, they're characterizing a liberal as progressive, and in favour of tax & spend policies, a strong welfare state, and at least moderate redistribution of wealth - while remaining fundamentally capitalist. And usually voting Democrat. It's a very American term.

Classical liberalism is about the ideas of individualism, equality, and various civil liberties and was a reaction to monarchies and other hierarchical societies. Pretty much all mainstream American political groups at least pretend to be liberal in that sense.