What does it mean when someone (male or female) who doesn't know you well calls you sweety or dear? Compliment

Answer 1

I second Elmer's comment, with the caveat that those terms are often used sarcastically. Example: A waitress gives crummy service to a table, comes back sometime later and asks, "Is everything OK?" The answer comes back, "Just fine, dear." Uh, no, it's not. If our waitress has any kind of brain, she'll recognize sarcasm and try to save a tip by kissing up a little. Or just plain old improving her service.

Answer 2

Could very well be cultural. When I moved to Texas, the ladies will call me "honey" without batting an eye. That didn't happen when I lived up north. Women in England will refer to you as "love", and with a completely different connotation. So alot of it is cultural.