The traditional Spanish term for a quinceañera’s female court member is dama.
Dama means “lady” and is used for a girl or young woman who participates in the celebrant’s formal court. Damas may appear in coordinated dresses, join the choreographed dance, walk with the quinceañera, and take part in photographs. The court’s size and composition depend on the family’s plans and local custom.
The term is not identical to madrina. A madrina is generally a sponsor or honored supporter, while a dama is a participant in the court. Contemporary celebrations may use a smaller court, a mixed-gender group, or no court at all. Thus, dama is a traditional label, not a requirement for a valid or recognizable quinceañera.