Vicuña: meaning, definitions and examples

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vicuña

 

[ vɪˈkuːnjə ]

Noun
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?

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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.

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

Etymology

The word 'vicuña' comes from the Quechua language, spoken by indigenous peoples in the Andes region. Vicuñas have been important to Andean cultures for centuries, both for their wool and as symbols of the high mountains. Due to their high value, vicuñas have been threatened by poaching, leading to conservation efforts to protect these iconic animals.

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.