Madrina is the Spanish term for a female sponsor or godmother who may support a quinceañera.
A madrina can be a relative, family friend, or religious sponsor connected with the honoree. Depending on local custom, she may help with planning, contribute an item or expense, participate in a church ceremony, or stand in an honored role during the celebration.
The masculine term is padrino. Some quinceañeras have several madrinas and padrinos, each associated with a particular contribution or ceremonial responsibility. Other families do not use sponsors at all, so the arrangement is not standardized.
Madrina is distinct from chambelán, a term often used for a male member of the honoree’s court or escort group. It is also distinct from quinceañera, which names the honoree and the celebration. These Spanish words are often mixed up when quinceañera customs are described in English.