Inklingo

How to Say "patroness" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “patroness” is “madrina” — use 'madrina' when referring to a female sponsor or godmother, particularly at events like weddings or ship launches, who officially supports or blesses it..

English → Spanish

madrina

mah-DREE-nah/maˈðɾina/

nounB1general
Use 'madrina' when referring to a female sponsor or godmother, particularly at events like weddings or ship launches, who officially supports or blesses it.
A woman in an elegant gown holding a bouquet of flowers, standing next to a bride in a white wedding dress.

Examples

La madrina del proyecto donó una gran suma de dinero.

The patroness of the project donated a large sum of money.

La madrina de la boda llevaba un vestido azul precioso.

The matron of honor at the wedding wore a beautiful blue dress.

Fue elegida madrina del nuevo barco de la marina.

She was chosen as the patroness for the navy's new ship.

Como madrina, ella entregó los anillos.

As the sponsor/matron of honor, she handed over the rings.

Ceremonial Roles

Spanish uses 'madrina' for almost any female figure who sponsors a person or object during a ceremony, which is a broader use than in English.

santa

SAHN-tah/ˈsan.ta/

nounB1religious
Use 'santa' when referring to a female saint who is considered the special protector or guardian of a place, group, or activity.
A serene illustration of a woman depicted as a saint, kneeling gently in simple robes with a bright gold halo above her head.

Examples

Santa Clara es la santa de los pobres.

Saint Clare is the patroness of the poor.

La patrona de la ciudad es Santa Cecilia.

The city's patron saint is Saint Cecilia.

Mi madre es una santa, ¡tiene una paciencia infinita!

My mother is a saint (a wonderful, patient person), she has infinite patience!

Title Usage

When 'Santa' is used before a name (e.g., Santa Ana or Santa Bárbara), it functions as an honorific title, similar to 'Saint' in English.

Madrina vs. Santa

Learners often confuse 'madrina' and 'santa' because both can imply a form of support. Remember that 'madrina' is used for a human supporter of an event or person, while 'santa' specifically refers to a female saint as a protector.

Related Translations

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