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Definition of arequipa
arequipa
/ˌɑːr.əˈkiː.pə/
Ar · e · qui · pa
arequipa Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
8
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A major city in southern Peru and the capital of the Arequipa Region, renowned for its colonial architecture built from white volcanic stone (sillar) and its scenic location framed by three prominent volcanoes.
Example
"During our trip to Peru, we spent three days exploring the historic center of Arequipa before heading up into the Andes."
• Rhymes for arequipa
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from indigenous Andean languages, most likely from the Aymara words 'ari' (peak) and 'quipa' (behind), translating to 'the place behind the mountain' in reference to the nearby Misti volcano. A popular folk etymology traces it to the Quechua phrase 'Ari, quipay,' meaning 'Yes, stay.'
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Arequipa. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/arequipa