Quinceañera is the traditional Spanish feminine term for a girl celebrating her fifteenth birthday.
The word comes from quince, meaning “fifteen,” and is connected to the expression quince años, or “fifteen years.” In English, the same word commonly refers both to the honoree and to the celebration held for her.
Spanish usage varies across regions. Some communities use fiesta de quince años or quince años for the event, while quinceañera more directly identifies the young woman. Local customs can also affect the names used for attendants, sponsors, and ceremonies.
The masculine counterpart is quinceañero. Modern celebrations may be adapted for different family structures and identities, but the traditional terminology remains strongly associated with a girl’s fifteenth-birthday milestone.