I have a customer service job so I deal with lots of people of all varieties. I used to think "buddy" was just an old-fashioned term for addressing strangers. Until I stumbled upon some forums about how being called 'buddy' is patronizing/addressing lower status people or just the person being an asshole.

I never thought much of it but now I think its reasonable to be aware if someones trying to take a social jab at me. I dont get called buddy a lot but its always 100% from a blue-collar 50-60 year old white guy if it does happen. These are guys that I perceive to be lower SMV than me. Theyre less charismatic, less good looking, less built, etc. Usually dressed roughly as well. Just picture a construction worker 45 year old guy with unkempt hair/beard.

Is this a generational thing? I never get called 'buddy' from 20-30 year olds. Someone that I perceive to be an "alpha male" doesnt even have 'buddy' in their vocabulary: they use bro, dude, man, etc.

P.S. Their tone isnt patronizing.. its just a neutral 'thanks buddy' etc.