The Spanish term commonly describing godparents who support a quinceañera celebration is padrinos.
Padrinos is the plural of padrino, meaning godfather or male sponsor; padrinas refers to female sponsors, and padrinos can also be used generically for a sponsoring couple or group. These sponsors may help pay for particular elements, such as the dress, cake, music, flowers, or religious ceremony. Their exact responsibilities are determined by the family rather than by one universal rule.
The role connects the quinceañera with broader Latin American sponsorship customs. In many communities, relatives and close family friends are invited to contribute to important milestones. The relationship can be practical, ceremonial, or both.
Padrinos should not be confused with the court of honor. The court consists of young attendants, while padrinos are usually adult sponsors or family friends. Regional vocabulary and the number of sponsors vary considerably.