"ese" and its informal usage
I have heard, over the years, many of my male Mexican friends and associates refer to each other as "ese." I know it must be a friendly term, maybe jokingly used, but what does it really mean, and how did it come about to be used in this way? Even my Mexican fiancé doesn't know. Is it colloquial? I haven't heard it used since I have moved up north (Ohio), but when I lived in New Mexico I heard it frequently. Any information or opinions would be appreciated. Thanks, Melissa
1 Answer
ese means nothing more than dude. And yes, it's very colloquial, probably mainly used amongst young people. It should only be used with close friends or in very informal situations where it's clear there's no problem using it.
Similar terms are vato and wey (güey).
As for it's origin, quien sabe?
