In Spanish, and in many Spanish speaking countries, "nene" is a term of endearment used for males ("
nena" for females).
It can be used toward each other amongst lovers, family, friends and even sometimes strangers in a joking or "
light-hearted" manner, depending on the context and how its used in the Spanish speaking country of origin where the person saying it is from.
It can be equivalent to saying "honey", "
hun", "sweetie", "babe", "baby", etc.
Wife: "How was your day at work nene?"
Husband: "Exhausting.. I'm tired and hungry. What's for dinner mami?"
Mom: "Hurry up and get ready for school nene. You're gonna be late!"
Son: "But
I don't feel so good. I think I'm sick" *coughs*
Friend (guy): "Damn, look at Carmen.. She's so fly."
Friend (girl): "You still crushin' on her nene? Man, you've liked her since 6th grade! Why don't you just ask her out??"
Cash register older lady: "Find everything in the store ok nene?"
Kid: "Yes
Ma'm"
