What Spanish title is commonly used for female sponsors at a quinceañera?

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The Spanish title commonly used for female sponsors at a quinceañera is madrinas.

Madrinas are women who help support the celebration, either financially, ceremonially, or through practical assistance. The singular form is madrina, and the word is related to madre, meaning “mother.” A family may invite several madrinas, with each connected to a particular part of the event or a specific gift.

The corresponding masculine title is padrino, while the plural padrinos can sometimes refer broadly to sponsors. Sponsors may contribute items such as the dress, cake, jewelry, flowers, or religious objects, depending on local custom and family arrangements.

Madrinas are different from damas. Damas are female attendants in the court, often young friends or relatives. Madrinas are usually sponsors or adult supporters. Actual roles are not identical everywhere, so families may define them differently.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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