What Spanish term traditionally refers to a female attendant in a quinceañera court?

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The Spanish term traditionally referring to a female attendant in a quinceañera court is dama.

Damas are members of the court of honor who may accompany the celebrant during the entrance, formal photographs, and choreographed dances. The plural form is damas. In traditional arrangements, damas appear with chambelanes, although current celebrations often adapt the court to suit the family and the celebrant.

The word dama means “lady” in Spanish and does not mean that the attendant is a member of nobility. The ceremonial court uses formal language to emphasize the importance of the occasion. A dama may be a friend, sister, cousin, or another person selected by the quinceañera.

Participation is optional. Many families hold quinceañeras with a small group or without a court, while others include several attendants. The terminology and clothing can also vary by country, community, and personal preference.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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