A word that's supposed to be a term of endearment ie calling a lover, "dear, u are so sweet!" or to signify that someone is a close friend, "Whats the matter, my dear?"

You do not use the word loosely and to everyone of the opposite gender.

I had this quarrel with Alan some time back. He was SMSing female friends (read: flirting targets) messages like "dear, have u had lunch?" and then telling me that its just a term of friendship.

So I question. What's the difference between calling me "DEAR" and calling THEM "DEAR"?!!! Since we were in a relationship at that time, does that make me a "friend with benefits" instead of a girlfriend?

So then now I ask, what's there to assure me that I AM more important than them?

To this very day (6 months after we've broken up), Alan still calls me dear, especially when he needs a favour from me and is trying to be extra nice.

Glad to say, I'm immuned. Truly glad!