Why would a guy address you by saying “my dear”?

[10848814]

Why would guys who are strangers call me “my dear?” They tend to be guys around my age. Each time this has happened, they were guys who were helping me with something (checking in at hospital, ordering food). I find it interesting that guys call me that and they’re not saying it in a teasing/flirty tone and aren’t elderly. Don’t get me wrong, I do find it sweet; I just want to know what others may think!

[TommyMountainFigure]

The term 'my dear' is one of endearment. Usually used by upper class echelons of society here in the UK, but elsewhere too.

[spartan55]

I think you will never see those guys again so why does it matter?

[HelpfulWoman]

a lot of people in the uk use such terminology and it means nothing

[Sea_Breeze16]

Probably you are cute, and they just trying flirt with you

[dustybiker2]

It's formal respect, I assume.