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

Additionally, alpacas are native to the highlands of South America, where temperatures fluctuate rapidly within the day. —Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 20 Dec. 2024

Smartwool Merino Top and Base Layer Bottoms $115 $72 at Amazon $115 at Amazon Quality base layers in materials like Merino or alpaca wool are absolutely critical for keeping warm while skiing. —Terry Ward, Travel + Leisure, 7 Dec. 2024

His clothing line for them includes alpaca sweaters, corduroy trousers, bucket hats, and more to keep you cozy. —Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 26 Nov. 2024

Currently 40 percent off, it’s made with a cozy merino wool and alpaca blend. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 24 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Aymara allpaqa

First Known Use

1747, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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