llama

noun

lla·​ma ˈlä-mə  ˈyä-mə 

: any of a genus (Lama) of wild or domesticated, long-necked, South American ruminant (see ruminant entry 1) mammals related to the camels but smaller and without a hump

especially : a domesticated llama (L. glama) descended from the guanaco and used especially in the Andes as a pack animal and a source of wool

Illustration of llama

Examples of llama in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Currently, Rangers hike the peak with llamas to haul the feces back down. —Jayme Moye, Outside Online, 19 Nov. 2024

Today, Jesse shares his thoughts via email about the night one vibes, bonding with Linda the llama, and that big First Impression Rose change. —Kristen Baldwin, EW.com, 28 Jan. 2025

Many people in the region have exotic pets and care for animals like llamas, horses and goats that need a safe place to go during this dangerous event. —Doc Louallen, ABC News, 8 Jan. 2025

Therapy llamas and alpacas are calming fliers' nerves at this US airport. —Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Quechua

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

llama

noun

lla·​ma ˈläm-ə 

: any of several wild and domesticated long-necked South American hoofed mammals that chew the cud and are related to the camels but smaller and without a hump