alpaca

noun

al·​paca al-ˈpa-kə 

1

: a domesticated mammal (Vicugna pacos synonym Lama pacos) especially of Peru that is probably descended from the vicuña

2

a

: wool of the alpaca

b(1)

: a thin cloth made of or containing this wool

(2)

: a rayon or cotton imitation of this cloth

Illustration of alpaca

• alpaca 1

Examples of alpaca in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The next day unfolds upon arrival at Workington, gateway to the Lake District, where guests have options to canoe or paddleboard on Derwentwater Lake, meet friendly alpacas, or play classic lawn games at the Lingholm Estate, which is open exclusively to Britannic Explorer guests. —Ann Shields, AFAR Media, 26 Aug. 2025

Custom linens from Rivolta, alpaca throws, spectacular floral arrangements, personal valet services, a butler on call with everything from chocolates to Knesko face products and a private fleet of Rolls-Royces for transportation needs complete the experience. —Melinda Sheckells, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025

There will be traditional Latin American games before the lecture and a visit with live alpacas after. —Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Aug. 2025

Hyland initially assumed it was made of hair from animals like llamas or alpacas. —Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR, 13 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Aymara allpaqa

First Known Use

1747, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for alpaca

• hakka
• makah

Kids Definition

alpaca

noun

al·​paca al-ˈpak-ə 

1

: a mammal with fine long woolly hair domesticated in Peru and related to the llama

2

: wool of the alpaca or a cloth made of it

also : a rayon or cotton imitation of this cloth

Etymology

Spanish