A female member of a quinceañera’s court is commonly called a dama. The Spanish word means “lady,” and damas may accompany the honoree during the formal presentation, procession, photographs, or dances.
A court may also include chambelanes, who are commonly male escorts or attendants. The size and composition of the court vary widely. Some celebrations use a large group, while others have only a few attendants or no formal court at all.
Dama identifies a court role, not the birthday honoree. The honoree is the quinceañera, and a male honoree may be called a quinceañero. Padrino, meanwhile, generally refers to a sponsor or godparent-like supporter rather than a female court member.
Modern celebrations frequently adapt these labels. Families may choose mixed-gender courts, gender-neutral participation, or different titles. The traditional vocabulary remains useful, but it does not prescribe one mandatory format for every quinceañera.