In a traditional quinceañera, a female ceremonial sponsor is commonly called a madrina.
Madrina is the feminine form of the Spanish word for godmother or sponsor. In quinceañera planning, madrinas may be relatives, family friends, or other trusted adults who help provide particular items or services. A family might have several madrinas, each associated with a different contribution.
The corresponding masculine term is padrino. Together, padrinos and madrinas are often described as sponsors. Their role is distinct from that of the court of honor: sponsors support the celebration, while damas and chambelanes generally accompany the celebrant ceremonially.
Usage differs by family and region. Some celebrations have many sponsors, some have only one pair, and others do not use formal sponsors. “Madrina” therefore identifies a common role rather than a universally required participant.