Dama is the Spanish word for “lady” that may describe a female attendant in a quinceañera court.
In quinceañera terminology, damas are female members of the court of honor. They may enter with the celebrant, appear in formal photographs, and perform the choreographed waltz. The masculine term chambelán is used for a male attendant in many communities, although terminology and spelling can vary by country.
Dama does not identify the quinceañera herself. It describes an attendant, and the number of damas depends on the family’s plan. Some celebrations use a mixed court, a single attendant, or no court at all. The language can also be influenced by local Spanish and English usage.
The word should not be confused with madrina, which can refer to a female sponsor or godmother in some contexts. That role is distinct from serving as a young court attendant.