The Spanish word padrinos commonly means the sponsors or godparents who may help organize a quinceañera.
Padrinos can be relatives, family friends, or other trusted adults who provide practical, financial, or ceremonial support. In some celebrations, different padrinos are associated with particular items or expenses. Their involvement reflects the importance of extended family and community networks in many quinceañera traditions.
The role is not identical everywhere. Some families use padrinos for a religious ceremony, while others use the term more broadly for people sponsoring parts of the reception. The celebration can also take place without formal padrinos.
Padrinos should not be confused with members of the court. Chambelanes and damas are usually young attendants, whereas padrinos are typically adult sponsors or godparents. A madrina is the feminine singular form, and padrino is the masculine singular form.