Vicuña: meaning, definitions and examples

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vicuña

[vɪˈkuːnjə ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

animal

A vicuña is a wild relative of the llama and alpaca, native to the Andes mountains. It is known for its fine and valuable wool, which is considered one of the most luxurious fibers in the world.

Synonyms

Andean animal, wild relative of llama.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vicuña	Same as above; it appears to be repeated by mistake.
wild relative of llama	This phrase is ideal for educational or casual contexts when explaining the relationship between different camelid species to someone unfamiliar with them. The vicuña, a wild relative of the llama, roams freely in the Andes. People often mistake the vicuña for its domesticated cousin, the llama.
Andean animal	This phrase is used in more general contexts when discussing animals that inhabit the Andes region. It can refer to the vicuña or other animals found in the same habitat. The Andean animal diversity includes species adapted to high-altitude environments. Conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of unique Andean animals.

Word

Description / Examples

vicuña

Same as above; it appears to be repeated by mistake.

wild relative of llama

This phrase is ideal for educational or casual contexts when explaining the relationship between different camelid species to someone unfamiliar with them.

The vicuña, a wild relative of the llama, roams freely in the Andes.
People often mistake the vicuña for its domesticated cousin, the llama.

Andean animal

This phrase is used in more general contexts when discussing animals that inhabit the Andes region. It can refer to the vicuña or other animals found in the same habitat.

The Andean animal diversity includes species adapted to high-altitude environments.
Conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of unique Andean animals.

Examples of usage

The vicuña is protected by law in Peru.
Vicuña wool is highly prized for its softness and warmth.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'vicuña' comes from the Quechua language, where it is called 'wik'uy,' meaning 'to weave,' referencing its valuable wool.
In Spanish, the term was adapted from 'vicuña,' which has been in use since the 16th century to describe this animal.

Cultural Significance

The vicuña is considered a national symbol in Peru and is often featured in folklore and traditional crafts.
Indigenous people have historically valued vicuñas for their wool, which is used to create high-quality garments.

Biology and Habitat

Vicuñas are unique among their relatives because they can thrive at extremely high altitudes (over 15,000 feet) in the Andes.
The animal is adapted to cold environments with a thick, double-layered coat that helps insulate them against harsh weather.

Conservation

Once endangered due to over-hunting for their wool, vicuña populations have significantly recovered thanks to conservation efforts.
Today, they are protected by law, and their shearing is regulated to prevent illegal poaching, ensuring sustainable use of their wool.

Economics

Vicuña wool is among the most expensive fibers in the world, often referred to as 'golden fleece' due to its softness and rarity.
Locals often engage in sustainable practices around vicuña shearing, creating economic opportunities while preserving the species.

Translations

Translations of the word "vicuña" in other languages:

🇵🇹 вікінья

🇮🇳 विकुना

🇩🇪 Vikunja

🇮🇩 vikunya

🇺🇦 вікуня

🇵🇱 wikunia

🇯🇵 ビクーニャ

🇫🇷 vigogne

🇪🇸 vicuña

🇹🇷 vikunya

🇰🇷 비쿠냐

🇸🇦 فيكونيا

🇨🇿 vikunja

🇸🇰 vikunja

🇨🇳 小羊驼

🇸🇮 vikunja

🇮🇸 víkúnja

🇰🇿 викуня

🇬🇪 ვიკუნია

🇦🇿 vikunya

🇲🇽 vicuña

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,046, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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41043 expurgate
41044 hotfoot
41045 nuked
41046 vicuña
41047 egotistically
41048 humdinger
41049 mislay
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