Quinceañera is the Spanish word used for the girl celebrating her 15th birthday.
The term is formed from quince, meaning “fifteen,” and a feminine form related to año, meaning “year.” In Spanish-language usage, quinceañera commonly identifies the young woman, while quince años can identify the birthday celebration itself. English speakers also frequently use quinceañera for the entire event.
The word is related to the cultural meaning of the ceremony: it marks a symbolic passage from childhood into a new stage of life. The event may include a Mass, a formal entrance, a court, a waltz, and family speeches, but these features vary by region and household.
Quinceañera should not be confused with dama or chambelán. A dama is a female member of the court, while a chambelán is traditionally a male escort. Madrina means godmother or sponsor and describes a role, not the birthday celebrant.