mate
nounInformal
A British English slang term. Browse all British slang.
What it means
A friend. The most common word for one in British English.
Used to address any man, friend or stranger. Cheers, mate.
Said flatly to a stranger who has annoyed you, it is a warning rather than a friendly greeting.
Tone is everything. 'Alright, mate?' and 'Mate.' are not the same speech act.
In use
I'm meeting a few mates for a drink.
Cheers, mate, appreciate it.
Mate. That's my seat.
Note: Clipped and flat. This is confrontational.