valete

Valete is a term with several related senses in Portuguese and other Romance-language contexts. In Portuguese, valete is used for two main meanings: a playing-card term and a service role for staff who assist guests. The word derives from the French valet, meaning a servant, and is cognate with the English valet.

In cards, valete is the Jack, the face card that depicts a male figure. In Lusophone card traditions, valete is one of the figuras (face cards) and typically ranks as 11, above the numbered cards and below the dama (queen) and rei (king) depending on the game. In most standard 52-card games that use English naming, valete corresponds to the Jack.

As a service role, a valete or valet is a staff member who assists guests by parking cars, delivering items, or helping with luggage. In hotels, restaurants, and events, valet service can improve convenience for guests. In Portuguese-speaking countries the term valet is less common in everyday speech than manobrista or porteiro, and usage varies by country and establishment.

In culture, Valete can appear as a personal name or stage name in Portuguese-speaking communities. The term’s usage reflects its historical link to service and status, as well as its practical role in games and entertainment.