llama: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowNeutral (can be technical in zoology/agriculture, informal in other contexts)
Quick answer
What does “llama” mean?
A domesticated South American camelid kept for its soft wool, and sometimes as a pack animal.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A domesticated South American camelid kept for its soft wool, and sometimes as a pack animal.
Informally used as a name or mascot in technology and pop culture, or as a term of endearment for something soft and woolly.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or spelling. Pronunciation may differ slightly (see IPA).
Connotations
In both varieties, evokes the animal, South America, and occasionally humor or exoticism.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, appearing mainly in specific contexts (e.g., zoos, textiles, travel).
Grammar
How to Use “llama” in a Sentence
to raise/breed ~sa herd of ~s~ wool/fleeceto be spit on by a ~Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In the context of textile imports or niche farming.
Academic
In biology, zoology, anthropology, or agricultural studies.
Everyday
When discussing animals, travel to South America, or wool products.
Technical
Specific to zoological classification or animal husbandry.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “llama”
- Misspelling as 'lama' (which is the Tibetan monk).
- Confusing it with an alpaca.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Llamas are larger, with longer faces and ears, and are primarily used as pack animals. Alpacas are smaller, bred for their finer, denser wool.
Yes, llamas can spit as a defensive mechanism or to establish social hierarchy within the herd, usually at other llamas, but occasionally at humans if provoked.
It comes from the Spanish word 'llama', which itself was borrowed from Quechua, the language of the Inca Empire.
Generally, no. Llamas are not strong enough to carry an adult human for long distances. They are used as pack animals to carry gear, not riders.
A domesticated South American camelid kept for its soft wool, and sometimes as a pack animal.
Llama is usually neutral (can be technical in zoology/agriculture, informal in other contexts) in register.
Llama: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɑː.mə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɑː.mə/ or /ˈlæ.mə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[Rare] 'Like a llama in a china shop' (clumsy). Informal extension, not traditional.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
LLAMA has double L – like its long legs and long neck.
Conceptual Metaphor
PATIENCE/ENDURANCE (as a pack animal), SOFTNESS/COMFORT (from its wool).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary traditional use of the llama in the Andes?