Some guys go the "classic" route with names like "angel," "darling," and "sweetheart"; some prefer food-inspired nicknames, like "cookie" and "cupcake"; and some straight-up worship their partners with loving names like "queen," "goddess," and "light of my life."
The BEST Pet Names for Your Girl [And Which to Avoid]
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Is a nickname flirting?
Nicknames are a great way to express affection and familiarity. "Cutie" or Good-looking" are great nicknames when flirting, while names like "Babe" or "Honey" are better for committed relationships.
In 41 out of the 50 states, the reigning most popular pet name in the United States is (drumroll please)…. “babe/baby!” Basically the same word, both cute, and apparently almost universal. In fact, baby emerged as a slang term in the 1920s and has stayed pretty much ubiquitous as a pet name ever since.
If you're in a relationship, it's not unusual to give your partner nicknames, including but not limited to: bae, baby, my love, boo, sweetheart, etc. Turns out these pet names aren't just cute (even though, okay, some might sound silly), but they can actually be a super important part of your relationship.
What do girls like to be called? Literal pet names. Pets are a source of pleasure, so it's no surprise that women enjoy being called names of cute animals. Consider “bunny”, “puppy”, “cat”, “kitten”, “doggy” and so forth as viable pet names that women enjoy.
Not only do they express affection, but they also communicate a levity. And as you wade deeper into a relationship, such reminders can be exceptionally valuable. Think of it as a form of “couple speak.” Moreover, there are also researchers who believe that pet names can be something of a sexual stimulant, too.
In a survey of over 1,000 adults, researchers found that 87% of Americans use pet names when in relationships (compared to 74% of Europeans), and those who do are 16% more likely to be happy in their relationship. What's more, men (85%) actually use pet names more than women (76%).
Usually, if your S.O. is calling you babe, it's probably because they care about you or are speaking flirtatiously with you, and, as Sullivan said, calling you by your name might not get that across at the moment.
