Padrino is the Spanish word for a quinceañera’s male sponsor or godfather.
Padrinos can support the celebration financially, provide particular items, or help with planning. The term is related to the broader Spanish tradition of naming sponsors or godparents for important religious and family occasions. Its plural form is padrinos.
A padrino is not automatically a chambelán. Chambelanes are male attendants in the court, while padrinos serve as sponsors and may be older relatives, family friends, or godparents. One person can theoretically have more than one role, but the terms describe different functions.
Contemporary celebrations often adapt the sponsorship system. Some families use formal padrinos and madrinas, while others do not designate sponsors at all.