Is "dude" all inclusive?

"Dad, what's a girl dude?"

My 4-year-old asked me that this afternoon. That got me thinking - I don't think there is one! I really don't like "dudette" - it doesn't roll off the tongue.

Don't take this the wrong way, ladies, but I think that even though the term "dude" is normally applied just to guys, it can apply equally appropriately to both guys and girls. Check out the following examples and see if you agree with my analysis:

1. "Dude, how you doin'?"

2. "I walked in and there was a room full of dudes."

3. "Whoa, that's a DUDE!"

4. "Dudes, what's up?"

5. "Come on, dude, let's go!"









1. Both

2. Guys

3. A guy

4. Both

5. Both

Now, I understand that not everyone sees my favorite word that way, but that's OK. Just don't be offended when I greet you with a heartfelt "Dude, what's shakin'?" (regardless of your gender).

Later. (dudes) - RevPhil