In a quinceañera, the traditional Spanish word for a male escort or court member is “chambelán.” A chambelán may participate in the formal entrance, choreographed dances, and other ceremonial parts of the celebration.
The quinceañera’s court is commonly made up of young relatives and friends. Depending on regional custom and family preference, it can include both male and female attendants, only a few people, or a larger formally coordinated group.
A chambelán is not necessarily the quinceañera’s romantic partner. The role is primarily ceremonial, and the person chosen may be a brother, cousin, friend, or another trusted companion. In English-language descriptions, “escort” and “court member” are often used instead.
Spanish terminology varies by country and family. “Chambelán” is the widely recognized traditional term, while names such as “dama” refer to female attendants rather than male ones.