Top Ten British Slang for Best Friends

Despite our reputation for being a bit repressed us Brits have a lot ways to express our affection for our nearest and dearest.

Here's some words and phrases we use when talking about our best friends. Please note: some of these will be used in an ironic way or even in a non-ironic way but with the pretence that it's being said in an ironic way!  This is especially true when British boys are wanting to express their affection or concern for each other but don't wish to come across as being soft or soppy or even just nice!

This is a top ten of popular terms for friend but with more added as and when I think of them. So not really a top ten! 

1. Mate.
Some Brits use the term "mate" to describe everyone they encounter - even total strangers can be called "mate". It's also a catch-all term for when you don't know or have forgotten someone's name.

"Hello mate" covers all situations but is best not used in formal situations such as job interviews unless you're applying for a job on a building site or as a cab driver.

2. Babe.
Used mostly to describe young women but also sometimes men. Can be said wih warmth and be appreciated. Some people do not take kindly to being called "Babe". Should never be used in formal settings.

3. Bestest Buddy/Best buds/Bosom Buddy

Used ironically, non-ironically and also non-ironically but with the pretence of irony. "He's my bestest buddy". "We are best buds".

"You're my bosom buddy, you are" might only be heard while both of you are drunk.
Bud has really taken off in the past few years: "He's my best bud".

4. Chum
Rarely used nowadays. Can carry a hint of menace if said by the wrong person.

5. Pal
More popular in Scotland than England, Wales or Northern Ireland.  Beware if anyone says this to you through gritted teeth.

Good: "I'll see you later, pal"  (you can look forward to meeting up with your friend later)
Bad: "I'll sees you later PAL!" (you maybe want to stay indoors for a bit and not answer the door if anyone comes knocking).

6. Homie
Rare but sometimes used by boys who like to think they are growing up in LA instead of Dorset
also "Home Boy".

7. Old Chap

8. Old Bean

9. Blud
Used by teenage boys absolutely everywhere. Best avoided if you're over 18.

10. Geezer
used as a general warm/light hearted greeting between males as in "Alright geezer"

11. Fella - similar to geezer.

Useful phrases:
Thick as thieves - very close friends.
Also: Partner(s) in crime