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

For families Children can groom and walk St Bernard dogs, make their own mocktails and meet llamas and alpacas as part of the fun and varied activities at the complimentary kids club (10am-9pm). —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Feb. 2026

Among alpaca’s virtues is its odor resistance. —Scott Douglas, Outside, 3 Feb. 2026

The oh-so-soft knit is a blend of mohair and alpaca, which is warm and breathable enough to wear in chilly museums, on long train rides, or for romantic strolls along the Seine. —Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 28 Jan. 2026

Staff say the alpaca appears calmer with the mirrors in place, often lingering near them. —Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 27 Jan. 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