In a quinceañera, madrinas commonly means the honoree’s female sponsors.
Madrinas is the plural of madrina, the feminine counterpart to padrino. Madrinas may help provide or organize parts of the celebration, such as clothing, flowers, music, food, or other services. They may also be acknowledged during the reception or religious portion of the event.
The role is shaped by family and local tradition. A quinceañera can have one sponsor, several sponsors, paired padrinos and madrinas, or no formal sponsors. The word therefore identifies a customary relationship, not a universal checklist of responsibilities.
Madrinas differ from damas. Damas are traditionally young women in the ceremonial court who participate in entrances and dances. Madrinas are generally adult supporters or sponsors. Some people also use madrina in broader Spanish-speaking contexts for a godmother or female patron, so the exact duties depend on the event.