In quinceañera traditions, a female sponsor or godmother is commonly called a madrina.
Madrina is the feminine form of padrino, a Spanish word for godmother or sponsor. In a quinceañera, madrinas and padrinos may help pay for particular items, organize parts of the celebration, or present symbolic gifts. Their exact responsibilities depend on the family and community.
A madrina is different from a dama. A dama is usually a female member of the quinceañera’s ceremonial court, while a madrina has a sponsoring or supportive role. Some families use these terms informally, so descriptions can vary.
The custom reflects the importance of extended family, godparents, and trusted family friends in many Latin American communities. It does not mean that every quinceañera has official sponsors, and modern celebrations often distribute responsibilities among parents and relatives instead.