Padrino commonly means the male sponsor of a quinceañera.
The feminine form is madrina. Padrinos and madrinas may help pay for or organize parts of the celebration and can have a ceremonial role during the Mass or reception. Their exact duties differ by family and country.
The word padrino literally relates to a “godfather,” but a quinceañera sponsor does not necessarily have the same role as a child’s baptismal godparent. Some families choose relatives, family friends, or several sponsor couples for different items or expenses.
A padrino should also be distinguished from a chambelán. A chambelán is generally a male attendant or escort in the court, while a padrino is a sponsor. The same person could theoretically hold more than one role, but the terms describe different functions.