The word "girlfriend" implies someone a boy or man is dating -- a sweetheart. It can be used negatively, if someone wants to insult another male, but usually it has a positive connotation to it.
It can also mean a female friend, but not usually in our society today!
http://www.answers.com/girlfriend
What is the difference between 'female friend' and 'girlfriend'? Does 'girlfriend' have any negative connotation?
2 answers
female friend is referring tojust a "friend" that is a girl. Girlfriend is usually referred to a girl or woman with whom somebody has a romantic or sexual relationship