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 example, while an organic wool comforter made with alpaca is a cozy and hypoallergenic choice, organic cotton is a lighter weight option that’s ideal for layering in the warmer months of the year. — Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 5 Aug. 2026

One of my personal favorite items of clothing for sweaty days is this Paka bralette made of tencel, organic cotton, and alpaca wool. — Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 2 Aug. 2026

Every day, Madison Wood cares for dozens of animals at her farm, including cows, emus, goats and alpacas. — Aaron Parseghian, CBS News, 28 July 2026

Additional buildings include an equipment barn, cattle and alpaca barns, a chicken coop, and another barn for goats and sheep. — Mark David, Robb Report, 27 July 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