In quinceañera traditions, dama commonly identifies a female member of the court of honor.
The Spanish word dama means “lady.” Damas may accompany the quinceañera during a formal entrance, take part in a choreographed presentation, and appear in coordinated attire for the reception. Their exact duties depend on the family’s plan and local custom.
The court is often described as including damas and chambelanes, although contemporary celebrations can be more flexible. Some celebrants choose friends of different genders, a smaller group, or no court at all. The event does not require a fixed number of attendants.
Dama is distinct from madrina. A madrina is a female sponsor or godmother-like supporter, while a dama is generally an attendant in the celebrant’s court. These roles can overlap socially but are not the same title.