1. As a noun meaning "friend" or "companion":
* UK English: /meɪt/ (rhymes with "bait")
* US English: /meɪt/ (also rhymes with "bait")
2. As a noun referring to the South American drink:
* UK English: /ˈmɑːteɪ/ (rhymes with "marty")
* US English: /ˈmɑːteɪ/ (also rhymes with "marty")
3. As a verb meaning "to pair or match":
* UK English: /meɪt/ (rhymes with "bait")
* US English: /meɪt/ (also rhymes with "bait")
So, to summarize:
* "Mate" (friend) is pronounced like "bait" in both UK and US English.
* "Mate" (drink) is pronounced like "marty" in both UK and US English.
* "Mate" (verb) is pronounced like "bait" in both UK and US English.
If you're unsure which pronunciation to use, it's always best to ask for clarification or use the context to figure it out.