Derived from the Latin Yessam Maatum, this expresion dates back centuries. Brutus was known to have exclaimed "Yes Maate" as he wiped away Caesar's blood from his
dagger. Equally Henry VIII famously shouted "yes maate" when he learned he was to have a sixth stag do.
Nowadays the expression is commonly used, often unknowingly as they attempt the common/colloquial term "yes
mate." Whilst similar on
paper, their meanings do differ. With the double '
aa' signifying a greater emphasis/valididty/closer friendhip. Some say this double
aa was due to Germanic influence altering the latin, however this is hotly disputed.