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

Located in Avelengo, Chalet Mirabell offers family-friendly accommodations with a spa, alpaca farm and the region’s largest natural swimming pond. —Ramona Saviss, HollywoodReporter, 24 Mar. 2026

Llamas and alpacas from a local nonprofit visit Portland International Airport monthly to comfort travelers. —Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 22 Mar. 2026

Though they’re more closely associated with fashion apparel like alpaca cardigans and washable silk button-downs, Quince’s home category doesn’t get enough love. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 17 Mar. 2026

Crafted from a blend of alpaca and wool, the gauzy surface and contrasting velvet details of these styles stood out in the brand’s pretty fall 2026 collection. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 2 Mar. 2026

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