In a quinceañera, what Spanish term names the female birthday celebrant?

In a quinceañera, “quinceañera” is the Spanish term for the female birthday celebrant.

The term comes from quince, meaning fifteen, and añera, a feminine form connected with years or age. In Spanish-speaking usage, it can identify the young woman reaching age 15. In English, the same word is also widely used for the party or ceremony held in her honor, which can create two related meanings.

The celebrant is usually the central figure in a formal program. She may enter with parents or attendants, participate in a symbolic presentation, and perform choreographed dances. The exact sequence depends on local custom and the family’s preferences.

The word should not be confused with madrina, meaning a female sponsor or godmother, or dama, meaning a female member of the court. A quinceañera can have several damas and other attendants, but only the birthday celebrant carries that title. Spelling and pronunciation may vary slightly in English-language contexts, while the Spanish word remains the standard cultural term.