The French-derived term débutante describes a girl making her formal social debut.
A débutante was traditionally a young woman introduced into adult society at a formal presentation. The word comes from French débutante, meaning a female beginner or newcomer. European debut traditions influenced some coming-of-age customs in the Americas, although a débutante presentation and a quinceañera are not the same institution.
A quinceañera centers on a fifteenth birthday and is especially associated with Latin American and Latino communities. A debutante presentation historically emphasized entry into elite social society and could occur at a different age. Modern events using either tradition may be less formal and more focused on family celebration.
The related masculine noun is débutant. The accent marks are often retained in French and English writing, though debutante also appears without them. The word should not be confused with “debut,” which can mean any first public appearance.