infanta

An infanta is a title used in Iberian royalty for a daughter of the reigning monarch. The male equivalent is infante. The term derives from Latin infans, meaning “child,” and entered medieval Iberian royalty to distinguish legitimate children of the sovereign who do not ascend the throne. In practice, the heir to a throne is usually styled as prince or princess with a specific dynastic title, while other daughters of the monarch bear the title infanta.

In Spain, Infanta is the standard honorific for daughters of the king or queen who are not the sovereign or the heir apparent. The heir typically holds a separate title, such as Princess of Asturias. The title remains in use in the modern Spanish royal family; examples include Infanta Sofía, daughter of King Felipe VI, and earlier infantas such as Elena and Cristina.

In Portugal, the equivalent title is infanta for daughters of the king, with male children styled infante. The Portuguese monarchy was abolished in 1910, but the titles are still referenced in historical contexts and retained in ceremonial or dynastic discussions by former royal houses.

The title is largely distinctive to Iberian monarchies and their historical traditions. It denotes royal status for royal daughters, without implying sovereign authority. In contemporary usage, infantas are typically involved in official duties or charitable activities, depending on the preferences of the reigning royal family.

See also: Princess, Infante, Iberian royal titles.