Padrino is the traditional Spanish word for a male sponsor or godfather in a quinceañera celebration.
The feminine form, madrina, means godmother or female sponsor. A padrino may be a relative, family friend, or another trusted adult who helps support the celebrant and family. Depending on local practice, sponsors may contribute financially, provide ceremonial items, or take part in the religious service and reception.
The word comes from the same Spanish root as padre, meaning “father,” and its everyday meaning is “godfather” or “male sponsor.” It does not necessarily mean the celebrant’s biological father; her father may have a separate ceremonial role.
Customs differ substantially between families and countries. Some celebrations appoint one padrino and one madrina, while others have several sponsors or no formal sponsors. Thus, padrino identifies the role, not a fixed number of people or a mandatory part of every quinceañera.