Why do Americans use the term "kid" to people who are not really kids?

Question

I mean 17, 18, 19 year olds are not really kids but they like to refer to them as kids. here in our country, kids are about 3 to 12 y.o.

Answer 1

It reffers to age in a comparative sense. For a person older than you, you will always be considered a kid eventhough you may be grown. To an older brother I will always be "the kid" eventhough I may be grown. It is also an affectionate term which uses the comparative as well.
Mr. M on "kid."

Answer 2

I think that people in general call people "kids" to talk down to them as if it's an insult. I'm 18 and I'd LOVE to be a kid.

Answer 3

I am 60 and anyone younger than me is a "kid." It is just a friendly term, such as "buddy" or "pal." Sometimes, it may even be used affectionately. Besides, if you are young at heart, what is wrong with being called a kid?

Answer 4

It is sometimes a term of endearment. Humphrey Bogart made famous the phrase to Ingrid Bergman, "here's lookin' at you, kid."

If you want to get technical, the term "kid" is actually a baby goat.

Answer 5

Because I'm 40 and when you see a 17,18 or 19 yr old act immaturly they are indeed a kid

Answer 6

I call all my friends "kids" regardless of their age. It's usually a term of endearment, for me anyway.

Answer 7

I am 42 and anyone younger than me is a kid. I usually only use it when they are acting inmature.

Answer 8

I say kid all the time. I say it when someone is acting stupid and childish. i.e. Look at this kid. he is wearing some weird stuff.

Answer 9

it's just slang, like dog , dude, bro, but most people that are older than you will probably still call you kid, don't take offense, it's endearing

Answer 10

It being because the Americans are to suck, right?