dude
UK[djuːd]US[duːd]
n
A man, often used informally.
n
A person, especially one who is stylish or impressive.
n
(North American, informal) Used as a form of address to a man.
Etymology
The origin of 'dude' is surprisingly obscure for such a common word. It first appeared in American slang in the late 19th century, popularized by a 1883 song to refer to an overly fastidious city-dweller or dandy. While its exact source is unknown, one plausible theory connects it to the German dialect word 'Dude', meaning 'fool'. Another suggests it may derive from the Scottish 'duddies', meaning 'clothes'. The word's meaning softened over the 20th century, evolving from a term of mild mockery to a neutral, informal term for any man, a transformation solidified by its widespread use in California surfer and valley girl culture.
Analysis
The word 'dude' is a simplex word. It does not break down into smaller, meaningful morphemes within its current English spelling.
Examples
That dude over there is an incredible guitar player.
Hey dude, can you pass me the remote?
He's a really cool dude who's always up for an adventure.