Why would a guy call someone he isn't dating babe?

Well I had a friend that I used to call my love, I would say hello my love and she would say stuff like hello sexy, I don't know we just do I guess its a way of flirting maybe he's telling you that he likes you or he could just be looking to see what your reaction is.

I don't typically use the word babe, but I don't see it as a restricted word either. To me it just says that you think the girl is cool and good looking. It's a compliment that isn't overly personal. I wouldn't read much into it if he isn't being more descriptive. "Hey babe" is one thing, "I got you babe" is another, but the key parts are "hey" and "I got you" to define the context.

I think the parallel is to women calling a guy "handsome. " It means he's good looking and appealing, but doesn't pass beyond that without additional context.

It depends on the guy, but I personally don't do this. I have known some guys who do, but I think it's a pretty individual issue. I think in this situation actions are much louder than words. Does he treat you respectably, and does he spend quality time with you, developing your friendship? Or does he just fade in and out, not really investing much.

It's your call, but unless he does something overt that he's definitely putting himself out there for you on, then I wouldn't think too much more about it.

When I call someone a pet name, its usually as a hint that I'm interested in them, but really its just a flirt thing, at least for me. Also, since you used to call him that, he might remember that and be trying to bring back the old times.

If he's a player then all guys do that a lot. You guys could just have that close of a bond. Me and my best friend thats a guy do. I love him to death but we both know its not gonna work out if we went out. But since this guy friend is showing signs that he likes you then just casually bring it up and say,"well hey you know how a couples years back I liked you? Well I think the wheel has turned little mister! " and then both laugh about it. If he responds to that then maybe he will really tell you how he really feels. Best of Luck!