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 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

Instead of worrying about learning everything about sheep, swine, alpacas, bison, or goats, focus on cattle, the true stars of the stock show. —Sara Hansen, Denver Post, 23 Jan. 2026

Our love for Quince is well-documented, and the brand has a surprisingly robust throw pillow selection that ranges from cozy cashmere to airy linen fabric and even meanders into wildcard textiles like alpaca and suede. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 20 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