The Spanish word chambelán describes a male dance partner or attendant at a quinceañera.
A chambelán may accompany the celebrant during formal entrances, choreographed dances, or other parts of the reception. In some communities, the term is also spelled chambelan without the accent in English-language usage. The plural is chambelanes.
A chambelán is not necessarily a relative, and the role can be filled by a friend, cousin, or other chosen escort. Some celebrations use a single escort, while others have several male attendants in a larger court of honor.
The word should not be confused with padrino, which generally means godparent or sponsor. A mariachi is a musician or ensemble member, not a ceremonial dance attendant.