On ifMUD, at least, I see the words "chyx" and "chyk" as a way to intentionally avoid using the sexist and degrading words "chicks" and "chick". Somewhat like the way some people use the word "grrl", kinda. Except with awareness that it sounds and looks corny.

Also, I think it's a shame no masculine equivalent ever caught on, but I guess that's because we already have the word "guys"...

(But I was still rooting for "bolyk" and "bolyx"...)

-Jota, aka grunk