What Spanish word refers to the girl honored at a quinceañera?

The Spanish word quinceañera refers to the girl honored at the celebration.

The term comes from quince, meaning “fifteen,” and identifies the young woman celebrating her 15th birthday. In English-language discussions, quinceañera can also describe the entire event, but its direct personal meaning is the honoree. The masculine counterpart is quinceañero, used for a boy in traditions that adapt the format for him.

The spelling includes the ñ, and the feminine ending reflects Spanish grammar. English publications often retain the Spanish word because it names a specific cultural tradition rather than a generic birthday party. Some communities also use “quince” as a shorter informal label for the celebration.

A quinceañera may be accompanied by a court, family members, sponsors, or friends, but those roles are separate from the honoree. The word does not by itself require a religious ceremony, a particular dress color, or a specific dance. Those elements vary considerably among countries and families.