The traditional Spanish term for a male escort in a quinceañera court is chambelán.
A chambelán may accompany the honoree during formal entrances, photographs, dances, and other ceremonial moments. Depending on the family and region, the court can include one principal escort or several male attendants. The exact title and responsibilities are not identical everywhere.
The court commonly also includes damas, female attendants whose name means “ladies.” In some traditions, the honoree’s court has fourteen attendants, creating a symbolic group of fifteen when the quinceañera is included. Contemporary celebrations often adapt this arrangement, using mixed-gender groups or selecting only close friends and relatives.
Chambelán is sometimes translated loosely as “escort,” but it is not the same as padrino. A padrino is a sponsor or godparent-like supporter who may help with expenses or ceremonial items. The chambelán’s role is primarily connected with the court and public celebration.