What Spanish title is commonly used for a quinceañera’s male attendants?

Chambelanes is a common Spanish title for the male attendants in a quinceañera court.

The word is also written chambelán in the singular and chambelanes in the plural. These attendants may participate in the formal entrance, the court’s choreographed waltz, photographs, and other parts of the reception. Their number, clothing, and duties vary widely.

Some communities use alternative regional terms, including escorts or damas y chambelanes for a mixed court. A quinceañera may also have no formal court at all. These variations mean that the term describes a widespread convention rather than a rule that every family follows.

Chambelanes should not be confused with padrinos. Padrinos are sponsors or godparents who may help organize or finance parts of the celebration, while chambelanes are generally members of the ceremonial court. The roles can overlap socially, but they are not the same title.