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

They’re made with an alpaca wool-bend fabric and a spacious silhouette that’s so comfy for your hands. —Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 15 Nov. 2025

For the full experience, check the area calendar for holiday concerts, parades, Santa visits, and even alpaca farm tours during your visit to western North Carolina. —Skye Sherman, Southern Living, 11 Nov. 2025

But on Madison Avenue, knitwear — including alpaca pieces knit in Peru and merino styles made in Italy — will the hero. —Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 2025

The crowd favorite auction item was an Alpaca Harmony Yoga event, an experience that included a morning of yoga, sound bath, mimosas and brunch with the Robin’s Nest alpacas, Williams said. —Regina Elling, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Nov. 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