In a quinceañera, the Spanish term padrinos commonly means sponsors or honored adult supporters.
Padrinos is the plural of padrino, a word related to godfather or sponsor; padrinas is the feminine plural or a mixed form in some usage. In quinceañera traditions, padrinos may help pay for or provide particular items, services, or parts of the celebration. They can also serve as respected adult figures connected with the family.
Their role is not identical to that of the court of honor. The court usually accompanies the celebrant in the public program, while padrinos are sponsors or supporters. The exact duties differ greatly between families and regions.
The presence of padrinos is traditional but not mandatory. Some families select several sponsors for different contributions, while others organize the celebration without padrinos. The term therefore identifies a customary role, not a fixed legal title or a universal ceremony requirement.