In quinceañera terminology, chambelanes commonly refers to the male attendants.
Chambelanes are often members of the honoree’s court of honor. They may accompany her during the entrance, pose for formal photographs, and perform a rehearsed waltz or other choreographed routine at the reception. The exact spelling and pronunciation can vary in informal usage, and local traditions may use other labels for attendants.
The corresponding term damas commonly refers to female attendants. Together, damas and chambelanes form a court in many traditional celebrations, although not every family uses both groups. Modern quinceañeras may have mixed-gender attendants, a smaller group, or attendants selected without traditional titles.
Chambelanes are not the same as padrinos or madrinas. Padrinos and madrinas are sponsors or honored adult supporters, while chambelanes are usually peers or young people participating in the visible ceremonial group. The distinction matters because the names describe different relationships to the event.