Damas is the usual Spanish plural for the girls who form a quinceañera’s court.
The word dama means “lady” in Spanish. In quinceañera terminology, damas are female members of the celebrant’s court, while the male members are commonly called chambelanes. The group may participate in formal entrances, dances, photographs, and other parts of the celebration.
A traditional court is often described as including 14 damas and 14 chambelanes, plus the quinceañera. This arrangement can symbolize the celebrant’s previous 14 years, although modern celebrations frequently use smaller courts or no court at all.
Terminology and customs vary by country, family, church, and community. Damas should not be confused with madrinas, who are adult sponsors or benefactors, or with the quinceañera herself.