Homonym: Mate (Friend)
Mate is a traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant. It is typically prepared by steeping the dried leaves in hot water and is often served in a hollowed-out gourd, also called a mate. The drink is enjoyed for its stimulating effects, as it contains caffeine and other beneficial compounds.
Drinking mate is a social activity, often shared among friends or family. The gourd is passed around, and each person takes a turn sipping from it using a metal straw called a bombilla. This communal aspect of mate drinking fosters connection and conversation among participants.