mate = friend/buddy/pal/guy
Example: I went to the beach with my mates.
Can be used for unknown person, acquaintance, friend, or best friend. Often used for men to describe other men; now also used for and about women.
Profanity rating: zero
Common Kiwi/Aussie words and expressions, links to my favourite websites for teaching and learning the English language, and my observations about my adopted hometown, Brisbane.
