<?xml version="1.0" encoding="US-ASCII" standalone="no"?>
<!--Generated by ThunderDome XBRL - 03:57AM UTC 2025-05-09--><link:linkbase xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd">
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-12-operating-segments-" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-12-operating-segments-" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-12-operating-segments-" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-2-accounting-policies-" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-2-accounting-policies-" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-2-accounting-policies-" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-1-basis-of-presentation" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-1-basis-of-presentation" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-1-basis-of-presentation" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-document-and-entity-information" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-document-and-entity-information" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-document-and-entity-information" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_CityAreaCode" xlink:label="dei_CityAreaCode" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:label="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentInformationTable" xlink:label="dei_DocumentInformationTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentTransitionReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentTransitionReport" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityFileNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityFileNumber" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" xlink:label="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:label="dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LocalPhoneNumber" xlink:label="dei_LocalPhoneNumber" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_Security12bTitle" xlink:label="dei_Security12bTitle" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_SecurityExchangeName" xlink:label="dei_SecurityExchangeName" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:label="dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentInformationTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentTransitionReport" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityFileNumber" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_CityAreaCode" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_LocalPhoneNumber" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_Security12bTitle" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="16" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="17" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_SecurityExchangeName" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="18" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="19" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="20" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="21" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="22" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="23" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="24" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="25" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="26" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="27" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="28" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="29" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndDueFromBanks" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndDueFromBanks" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_Deposits" xlink:label="us-gaap_Deposits" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NoninterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoninterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NotesReceivableNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesReceivableNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssets" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SecuritiesSoldUnderAgreementsToRepurchase" xlink:label="us-gaap_SecuritiesSoldUnderAgreementsToRepurchase" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DeferredCompensation" xlink:label="wabc_DeferredCompensation" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesNet" xlink:label="wabc_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndDueFromBanks" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesReceivableNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssets" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoninterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Deposits" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SecuritiesSoldUnderAgreementsToRepurchase" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_DeferredCompensation" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited-parentheticals" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited-parentheticals" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited-parentheticals" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-income-unaudited" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-income-unaudited" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-income-unaudited" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BankOwnedLifeInsuranceIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_BankOwnedLifeInsuranceIncome" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CreditCardMerchantDiscountMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditCardMerchantDiscountMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebitCardMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebitCardMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DepositAccountMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepositAccountMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiduciaryAndTrustMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiduciaryAndTrustMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialServiceOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialServiceOtherMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromAffordableHousingProjectsEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromAffordableHousingProjectsEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InformationTechnologyAndDataProcessing" xlink:label="us-gaap_InformationTechnologyAndDataProcessing" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperating" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperatingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperatingAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeSecuritiesHeldToMaturity" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeSecuritiesHeldToMaturity" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansAndLeasesHeldInPortfolio" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansAndLeasesHeldInPortfolio" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseDeposits" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDeposits" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseOperating" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseSecuritiesSoldUnderAgreementsToRepurchase" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseSecuritiesSoldUnderAgreementsToRepurchase" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeDebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeDebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleOperating" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeDepositsWithFinancialInstitutions" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeDepositsWithFinancialInstitutions" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseAfterProvisionForLoanLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseAfterProvisionForLoanLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NoninterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoninterestExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NoninterestIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoninterestIncome" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeOtherOperatingIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeOtherOperatingIncome" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OccupancyNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_OccupancyNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoninterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoninterestExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProfessionalFees" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfessionalFees" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ATMProcessingFeesMember" xlink:label="wabc_ATMProcessingFeesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContractCourierExpense" xlink:label="wabc_ContractCourierExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_InterestAndDividendIncomeEquitySecuritiesOperating" xlink:label="wabc_InterestAndDividendIncomeEquitySecuritiesOperating" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_InterestExpenseBankTermFundingProgramBorrowings" xlink:label="wabc_InterestExpenseBankTermFundingProgramBorrowings" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepositAccountMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditCardMerchantDiscountMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebitCardMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiduciaryAndTrustMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ATMProcessingFeesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialServiceOtherMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperatingAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperatingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansAndLeasesHeldInPortfolio" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperatingAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_InterestAndDividendIncomeEquitySecuritiesOperating" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperatingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeDebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleOperating" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperatingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeSecuritiesHeldToMaturity" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperatingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeDepositsWithFinancialInstitutions" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperatingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperating" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDeposits" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_InterestExpenseBankTermFundingProgramBorrowings" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseSecuritiesSoldUnderAgreementsToRepurchase" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseOperating" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseAfterProvisionForLoanLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BankOwnedLifeInsuranceIncome" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeOtherOperatingIncome" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoninterestIncome" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OccupancyNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InformationTechnologyAndDataProcessing" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromAffordableHousingProjectsEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_ContractCourierExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfessionalFees" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoninterestExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoninterestExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoninterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income-loss-unaudited" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income-loss-unaudited" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income-loss-unaudited" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodBeforeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodBeforeTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodBeforeTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-shareholders-equity-unaudited" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-shareholders-equity-unaudited" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-shareholders-equity-unaudited" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockIncludingAdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockIncludingAdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationShareBasedPaymentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationShareBasedPaymentsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramExciseTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramExciseTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockGrantedDuringPeriodValueSharebasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockGrantedDuringPeriodValueSharebasedCompensation" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesIssuedForServices" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesIssuedForServices" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardNetOfForfeitures" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardNetOfForfeitures" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardNetOfForfeitures" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardNetOfForfeitures" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensationGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensationGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationShareBasedPaymentsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockIncludingAdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensationGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesIssuedForServices" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockGrantedDuringPeriodValueSharebasedCompensation" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardNetOfForfeitures" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardNetOfForfeitures" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramExciseTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-shareholders-equity-unaudited-parentheticals" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-shareholders-equity-unaudited-parentheticals" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-shareholders-equity-unaudited-parentheticals" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-cash-flows-unaudited" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-cash-flows-unaudited" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-cash-flows-unaudited" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BankOwnedLifeInsuranceIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_BankOwnedLifeInsuranceIncome" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsIncludingDisposalGroupAndDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsIncludingDisposalGroupAndDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAmortizationAndAccretionNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAmortizationAndAccretionNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedInterestReceivableNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedInterestReceivableNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredIncomeTaxes" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredIncomeTaxes" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeposits" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeposits" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxesReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxesReceivable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInterestPayableNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInterestPayableNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromLoansAndLeases" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromLoansAndLeases" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireAvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireAvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromLifeInsurancePolicies" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLifeInsurancePolicies" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromMaturitiesPrepaymentsAndCallsOfAvailableForSaleSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromMaturitiesPrepaymentsAndCallsOfAvailableForSaleSecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromMaturitiesPrepaymentsAndCallsOfHeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromMaturitiesPrepaymentsAndCallsOfHeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockOptionPlanExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockOptionPlanExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAmortizationAndAccretionNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockOptionPlanExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BankOwnedLifeInsuranceIncome" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedInterestReceivableNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxesReceivable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredIncomeTaxes" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInterestPayableNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLoanOriginationFeesNet" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromLoansAndLeases" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLifeInsurancePolicies" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireAvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromMaturitiesPrepaymentsAndCallsOfAvailableForSaleSecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromMaturitiesPrepaymentsAndCallsOfHeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeposits" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsIncludingDisposalGroupAndDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-3-investment-securities" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetPledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetPledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AAAAAAMember" xlink:label="wabc_AAAAAAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_BBBBBBMember" xlink:label="wabc_BBBBBBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_NRMember" xlink:label="wabc_NRMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_PublicDepositsAndShorttermBorrowedFundsMember" xlink:label="wabc_PublicDepositsAndShorttermBorrowedFundsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetPledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:to="wabc_PublicDepositsAndShorttermBorrowedFundsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AAAAAAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:to="wabc_BBBBBBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:to="wabc_NRMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DoubtfulMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DoubtfulMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialAssetNotPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialAssetNotPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivables30To59DaysPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables30To59DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivables60To89DaysPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables60To89DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesEqualToGreaterThan90DaysPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesEqualToGreaterThan90DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NonperformingFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonperformingFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PassMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PassMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubstandardMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubstandardMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_UnlikelyToBeCollectedFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnlikelyToBeCollectedFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_RevolvingLoansAmortizedCostBasisMember" xlink:label="wabc_RevolvingLoansAmortizedCostBasisMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoanOriginatedPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoanOriginatedPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedCurrentYearMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedCurrentYearMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedFourYearsPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedFourYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedOneYearPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedOneYearPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedThreeYearsPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedThreeYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedTwoYearsPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedTwoYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TotalTermLoansMember" xlink:label="wabc_TotalTermLoansMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PassMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubstandardMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DoubtfulMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnlikelyToBeCollectedFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialAssetNotPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables30To59DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables60To89DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesEqualToGreaterThan90DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonperformingFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoanOriginatedPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedFourYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedThreeYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedTwoYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedOneYearPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedCurrentYearMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TotalTermLoansMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_RevolvingLoansAmortizedCostBasisMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-5-concentration-of-credit-risk" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-5-concentration-of-credit-risk" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-5-concentration-of-credit-risk" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:label="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:label="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:label="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CustomerConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CustomerConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AggregateLoansMember" xlink:label="wabc_AggregateLoansMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_CommercialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:label="wabc_CommercialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ResidentialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:label="wabc_ResidentialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:to="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AggregateLoansMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CustomerConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:to="wabc_CommercialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:to="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ResidentialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentRemainderOfFiscalYearMember" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentRemainderOfFiscalYearMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentThereafterMember" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentThereafterMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear1Member" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear1Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear2Member" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear2Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear3Member" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear3Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear4Member" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear4Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_OtherAssetsAndLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="wabc_OtherAssetsAndLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_VisaIncMember" xlink:label="wabc_VisaIncMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:to="wabc_VisaIncMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentRemainderOfFiscalYearMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear1Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear2Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear3Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear4Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentThereafterMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_OtherAssetsAndLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CoreDepositsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CoreDepositsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CoreDepositsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AssetsAvailableToBePledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:label="wabc_AssetsAvailableToBePledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_BankTermFundingProgramMember" xlink:label="wabc_BankTermFundingProgramMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DepositsAndBorrowedFundsTextBlock" xlink:label="wabc_DepositsAndBorrowedFundsTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_FederalReserveMember" xlink:label="wabc_FederalReserveMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:to="wabc_FederalReserveMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="wabc_BankTermFundingProgramMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AssetsAvailableToBePledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_DepositsAndBorrowedFundsTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CollateralizedLoanObligationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CollateralizedLoanObligationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CollateralizedLoanObligationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-10-commitments-and-contingent-liabilities" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-10-commitments-and-contingent-liabilities" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-10-commitments-and-contingent-liabilities" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialStandbyLetterOfCreditMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialStandbyLetterOfCreditMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialStandbyLetterOfCreditMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-tables" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-3-investment-securities-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-tables" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLossTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLossTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityCreditQualityIndicatorTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityCreditQualityIndicatorTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentsClassifiedByContractualMaturityDateTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentsClassifiedByContractualMaturityDateTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_InterestIncomeFromInvestmentsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wabc_InterestIncomeFromInvestmentsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ScheduleOfUnrealizedLossOnInvestments1TableTextBlock" xlink:label="wabc_ScheduleOfUnrealizedLossOnInvestments1TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentsClassifiedByContractualMaturityDateTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="wabc_ScheduleOfUnrealizedLossOnInvestments1TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLossTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityCreditQualityIndicatorTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="wabc_InterestIncomeFromInvestmentsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-tables" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-tables" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableCreditQualityIndicatorsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableCreditQualityIndicatorsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PastDueFinancingReceivablesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PastDueFinancingReceivablesTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCreditLossesForFinancingReceivablesCurrentTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCreditLossesForFinancingReceivablesCurrentTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_FinancingReceivableLoansByRiskCategoryTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wabc_FinancingReceivableLoansByRiskCategoryTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ScheduleOfLoansReceivableTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wabc_ScheduleOfLoansReceivableTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="wabc_ScheduleOfLoansReceivableTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCreditLossesForFinancingReceivablesCurrentTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableCreditQualityIndicatorsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_PastDueFinancingReceivablesTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="wabc_FinancingReceivableLoansByRiskCategoryTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-tables" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-tables" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ScheduleOfAmountsRecognizedInNetIncomeTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wabc_ScheduleOfAmountsRecognizedInNetIncomeTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="wabc_ScheduleOfAmountsRecognizedInNetIncomeTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-tables" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-tables" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleofFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpenseTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleofFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpenseTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleofFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpenseTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-tables" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-tables" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DepositLiabilitiesTypeTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepositLiabilitiesTypeTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfRepurchaseAgreements" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRepurchaseAgreements" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepositLiabilitiesTypeTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRepurchaseAgreements" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements-tables" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements-tables" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share-tables" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share-tables" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-details-textual" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-3-investment-securities-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetPledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetPledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityNonaccrual" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityNonaccrual" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityBeforeAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityBeforeAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_PublicDepositsAndShorttermBorrowedFundsMember" xlink:label="wabc_PublicDepositsAndShorttermBorrowedFundsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetPledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain" xlink:to="wabc_PublicDepositsAndShorttermBorrowedFundsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgingPurposeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityBeforeAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityNonaccrual" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-amortized-cost-unrealized-gains-and-losses-and-estimated-fair-value-of-investment-securities-portfolio-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-3-investment-securities-amortized-cost-unrealized-gains-and-losses-and-estimated-fair-value-of-investment-securities-portfolio-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-amortized-cost-unrealized-gains-and-losses-and-estimated-fair-value-of-investment-securities-portfolio-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesAccumulatedUnrecognizedHoldingGain" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesAccumulatedUnrecognizedHoldingGain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesAccumulatedUnrecognizedHoldingLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesAccumulatedUnrecognizedHoldingLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityAmortizedCost" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityAmortizedCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityBeforeAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityBeforeAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesGrossUnrecognizedGains" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesGrossUnrecognizedGains" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesGrossUnrecognizedLosses" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesGrossUnrecognizedLosses" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesAccumulatedUnrecognizedHoldingGain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesAccumulatedUnrecognizedHoldingLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityAmortizedCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesGrossUnrecognizedGains" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesGrossUnrecognizedLosses" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAndHeldtomaturityBeforeAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-amortized-cost-and-estimated-market-value-of-securities-by-contractual-maturity-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-3-investment-securities-amortized-cost-and-estimated-market-value-of-securities-by-contractual-maturity-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-amortized-cost-and-estimated-market-value-of-securities-by-contractual-maturity-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsAmortizedCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsAmortizedCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsAmortizedCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsAmortizedCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDate" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearAmortizedCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearAmortizedCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDateFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateNetCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateNetCarryingAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesNextRollingTwelveMonthsAmortizedCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesNextRollingTwelveMonthsAmortizedCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesRollingYearSixThroughTenAmortizedCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesRollingYearSixThroughTenAmortizedCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesRollingYearTwoThroughFiveAmortizedCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesRollingYearTwoThroughFiveAmortizedCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearAmortizedCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesNextRollingTwelveMonthsAmortizedCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsAmortizedCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesRollingYearTwoThroughFiveAmortizedCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsAmortizedCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesRollingYearSixThroughTenAmortizedCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDate" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="16" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesSingleMaturityDateFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="17" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="18" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="19" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateNetCarryingAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="20" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="21" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAmortizedCostBasis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="22" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="23" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="24" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-gross-unrealized-losses-investment-securities-portfolio-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-3-investment-securities-gross-unrealized-losses-investment-securities-portfolio-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-gross-unrealized-losses-investment-securities-portfolio-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLonger" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLonger" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAccumulatedLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAccumulatedLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerNumberOfPositions" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12Months" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12Months" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsAccumulatedLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsAccumulatedLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsNumberOfPositions" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleUnrealizedLossPosition" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleUnrealizedLossPosition" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleUnrealizedLossPositionAccumulatedLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleUnrealizedLossPositionAccumulatedLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleUnrealizedLossPositionNumberOfPositions" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleUnrealizedLossPositionNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAccumulatedLoss1" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAccumulatedLoss1" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerFairValue1" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerFairValue1" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsAccumulatedLoss1" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsAccumulatedLoss1" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsFairValueWithoutAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsFairValueWithoutAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityUnrealizedLossPositionAccumulatedLoss" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityUnrealizedLossPositionAccumulatedLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityUnrealizedLossPositionFairValue1" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityUnrealizedLossPositionFairValue1" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_HeldtomaturitySecurities12MonthsOrLongerNumberOfPositions" xlink:label="wabc_HeldtomaturitySecurities12MonthsOrLongerNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesInUnrealizedLossPositionsQualitativeDisclosureNumberOfPositions1" xlink:label="wabc_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesInUnrealizedLossPositionsQualitativeDisclosureNumberOfPositions1" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesLessThan12MonthsNumberOfPositions" xlink:label="wabc_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesLessThan12MonthsNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CollateralizedDebtObligationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesLessThan12MonthsNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12Months" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsFairValueWithoutAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsAccumulatedLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsAccumulatedLoss1" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_HeldtomaturitySecurities12MonthsOrLongerNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLonger" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerFairValue1" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAccumulatedLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAccumulatedLoss1" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleUnrealizedLossPositionNumberOfPositions" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_HeldtomaturitySecuritiesInUnrealizedLossPositionsQualitativeDisclosureNumberOfPositions1" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleUnrealizedLossPosition" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="16" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityUnrealizedLossPositionFairValue1" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="17" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesAvailableForSaleUnrealizedLossPositionAccumulatedLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="18" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityUnrealizedLossPositionAccumulatedLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-allowance-for-credit-losses-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-3-investment-securities-allowance-for-credit-losses-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-allowance-for-credit-losses-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLossRecovery" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLossRecovery" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLossWriteoff" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLossWriteoff" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityCreditLossExpenseReversal" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityCreditLossExpenseReversal" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityCreditLossExpenseReversal" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLossWriteoff" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtSecuritiesHeldToMaturityAllowanceForCreditLossRecovery" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-credit-quality-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-3-investment-securities-credit-quality-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-credit-quality-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AAAAAAMember" xlink:label="wabc_AAAAAAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_BBBBBBMember" xlink:label="wabc_BBBBBBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_NRMember" xlink:label="wabc_NRMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AAAAAAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:to="wabc_BBBBBBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ExternalCreditRatingByGroupingDomain" xlink:to="wabc_NRMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-interest-income-from-investment-securities-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-3-investment-securities-interest-income-from-investment-securities-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-3-investment-securities-interest-income-from-investment-securities-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeSecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeSecuritiesTaxExempt" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeSecuritiesTaxExempt" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeSecuritiesTaxable" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeSecuritiesTaxable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeSecuritiesTaxable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeSecuritiesTaxExempt" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeSecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-details-textual" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableModificationsPostModificationRecordedInvestment2" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableModificationsPostModificationRecordedInvestment2" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableImpairedCommitmentToLend" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableImpairedCommitmentToLend" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LoansReceivableHeldForSaleAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansReceivableHeldForSaleAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansInProcessOfForeclosureAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansInProcessOfForeclosureAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NonperformingFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonperformingFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherRealEstate" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_CollateralDependentLoansBalance" xlink:label="wabc_CollateralDependentLoansBalance" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_NumberOfCollateralDependentLoans" xlink:label="wabc_NumberOfCollateralDependentLoans" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonperformingFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentPerformanceStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableImpairedCommitmentToLend" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableModificationsPostModificationRecordedInvestment2" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_NumberOfCollateralDependentLoans" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_CollateralDependentLoansBalance" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansReceivableHeldForSaleAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherRealEstate" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansInProcessOfForeclosureAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-loans-receivable-at-carrying-amount-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-loans-receivable-at-carrying-amount-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-loans-receivable-at-carrying-amount-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-allowance-for-loan-losses-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-allowance-for-loan-losses-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-allowance-for-loan-losses-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossesRecovery" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossesRecovery" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossesWriteOffs" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossesWriteOffs" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLossesExpensed" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLossesExpensed" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLossesExpensed" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossesWriteOffs" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossesRecovery" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-credit-risk-profile-by-internally-assigned-grade-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-credit-risk-profile-by-internally-assigned-grade-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-credit-risk-profile-by-internally-assigned-grade-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DoubtfulMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DoubtfulMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PassMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PassMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubstandardMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubstandardMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_UnlikelyToBeCollectedFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnlikelyToBeCollectedFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PassMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubstandardMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DoubtfulMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnlikelyToBeCollectedFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-loans-by-delinquency-and-nonaccrual-status-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-loans-by-delinquency-and-nonaccrual-status-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-loans-by-delinquency-and-nonaccrual-status-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialAssetNotPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialAssetNotPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentNonaccrualStatus" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentNonaccrualStatus" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivables30To59DaysPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables30To59DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivables60To89DaysPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables60To89DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesEqualToGreaterThan90DaysPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesEqualToGreaterThan90DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialAssetNotPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables30To59DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables60To89DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesEqualToGreaterThan90DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentNonaccrualStatus" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-risk-category-of-loans-by-class-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-risk-category-of-loans-by-class-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-4-loans-allowance-for-credit-losses-and-other-real-estate-owned-risk-category-of-loans-by-class-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DoubtfulMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DoubtfulMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialAssetNotPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialAssetNotPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossesWriteOffs" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossesWriteOffs" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedFiveOrMoreYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedFiveOrMoreYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedFourYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedFourYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedInCurrentFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedInCurrentFiscalYear" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedInFiscalYearBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedInFiscalYearBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedMoreThanFiveYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedMoreThanFiveYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedThreeYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedThreeYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedTwoYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedTwoYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentNonaccrualStatus" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentNonaccrualStatus" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRevolving" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRevolving" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRevolvingWriteoff" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRevolvingWriteoff" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearFiveOriginatedFourYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearFiveOriginatedFourYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearFourOriginatedThreeYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearFourOriginatedThreeYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearOneOriginatedCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearOneOriginatedCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearThreeOriginatedTwoYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearThreeOriginatedTwoYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearTwoOriginatedFiscalYearBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearTwoOriginatedFiscalYearBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivables30To59DaysPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables30To59DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivables60To89DaysPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables60To89DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesEqualToGreaterThan90DaysPastDueMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesEqualToGreaterThan90DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PassMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PassMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubstandardMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubstandardMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_UnlikelyToBeCollectedFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnlikelyToBeCollectedFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_FinancingReceivableBeforeAllowanceForCreditLossAndRevolvingLoansWriteoff" xlink:label="wabc_FinancingReceivableBeforeAllowanceForCreditLossAndRevolvingLoansWriteoff" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_FinancingReceivableTermLoan" xlink:label="wabc_FinancingReceivableTermLoan" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_RevolvingLoansAmortizedCostBasisMember" xlink:label="wabc_RevolvingLoansAmortizedCostBasisMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoanOriginatedPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoanOriginatedPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedCurrentYearMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedCurrentYearMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedFourYearsPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedFourYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedOneYearPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedOneYearPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedThreeYearsPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedThreeYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TermLoansOriginatedTwoYearsPriorMember" xlink:label="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedTwoYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TotalTermLoansMember" xlink:label="wabc_TotalTermLoansMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PassMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommercialRealEstatePortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResidentialPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ConstructionPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsumerPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialAssetNotPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubstandardMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables30To59DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DoubtfulMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivables60To89DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InternalCreditAssessmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnlikelyToBeCollectedFinancingReceivableMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesPeriodPastDueDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablesEqualToGreaterThan90DaysPastDueMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoanOriginatedPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentByClassOfFinancingReceivableAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedFourYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedThreeYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedTwoYearsPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedOneYearPriorMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TermLoansOriginatedCurrentYearMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_TotalTermLoansMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentClassOfFinancingReceivableDomain" xlink:to="wabc_RevolvingLoansAmortizedCostBasisMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedFiveOrMoreYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedFourYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedThreeYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedTwoYearsBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedInFiscalYearBeforeLatestFiscalYear" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedInCurrentFiscalYear" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_FinancingReceivableTermLoan" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRevolving" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRecordedInvestmentNonaccrualStatus" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableOriginatedMoreThanFiveYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearFiveOriginatedFourYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearFourOriginatedThreeYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearThreeOriginatedTwoYearsBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearTwoOriginatedFiscalYearBeforeCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="16" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableYearOneOriginatedCurrentFiscalYearWriteoff" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="17" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_FinancingReceivableBeforeAllowanceForCreditLossAndRevolvingLoansWriteoff" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="18" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableRevolvingWriteoff" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="19" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossesWriteOffs" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-5-concentration-of-credit-risk-details-textual" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-5-concentration-of-credit-risk-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-5-concentration-of-credit-risk-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:label="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:label="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:label="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CustomerConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CustomerConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AggregateLoansMember" xlink:label="wabc_AggregateLoansMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_CommercialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:label="wabc_CommercialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConcentrationRiskAggregateLoansAmount" xlink:label="wabc_ConcentrationRiskAggregateLoansAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConcentrationRiskAggregateSecuritiesAmount" xlink:label="wabc_ConcentrationRiskAggregateSecuritiesAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConcentrationRiskIssuerRelationships" xlink:label="wabc_ConcentrationRiskIssuerRelationships" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_LoanCommitmentsRelatedToRealEstateLoans" xlink:label="wabc_LoanCommitmentsRelatedToRealEstateLoans" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_LoanToValueRatioRequirement" xlink:label="wabc_LoanToValueRatioRequirement" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ResidentialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:label="wabc_ResidentialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_SecuredAndUnsecuredLoanLimitPercentageCaliforniaFinancialCode" xlink:label="wabc_SecuredAndUnsecuredLoanLimitPercentageCaliforniaFinancialCode" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_UnsecuredLoanLimitPercentageOfShareholdersEquityCaliforniaFinancialCode" xlink:label="wabc_UnsecuredLoanLimitPercentageOfShareholdersEquityCaliforniaFinancialCode" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:to="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AggregateLoansMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CustomerConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:to="wabc_CommercialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:to="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ResidentialRealEstateLoansMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_UnsecuredLoanLimitPercentageOfShareholdersEquityCaliforniaFinancialCode" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_SecuredAndUnsecuredLoanLimitPercentageCaliforniaFinancialCode" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_ConcentrationRiskIssuerRelationships" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_ConcentrationRiskAggregateLoansAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_LoanCommitmentsRelatedToRealEstateLoans" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_LoanToValueRatioRequirement" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_ConcentrationRiskAggregateSecuritiesAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-details-textual" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedAtFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedAtFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedBalanceShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedBalanceShares" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_QualifiedAffordableHousingProjectInvestmentsCommitment" xlink:label="us-gaap_QualifiedAffordableHousingProjectInvestmentsCommitment" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SharePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharePrice" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentRemainderOfFiscalYearMember" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentRemainderOfFiscalYearMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentThereafterMember" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentThereafterMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear1Member" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear1Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear2Member" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear2Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear3Member" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear3Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear4Member" xlink:label="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear4Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ConversionRateOfClassBCommonStockIntoClassACommonStock" xlink:label="wabc_ConversionRateOfClassBCommonStockIntoClassACommonStock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_LIHTCInvestments" xlink:label="wabc_LIHTCInvestments" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_VisaIncMember" xlink:label="wabc_VisaIncMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain" xlink:to="wabc_VisaIncMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentIssuerNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentRemainderOfFiscalYearMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear1Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear2Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear3Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentYear4Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_ContingentCommitmentThereafterMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedBalanceShares" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedAtFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_ConversionRateOfClassBCommonStockIntoClassACommonStock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharePrice" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_LIHTCInvestments" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_QualifiedAffordableHousingProjectInvestmentsCommitment" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-other-assets-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-other-assets-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-other-assets-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BankOwnedLifeInsurance" xlink:label="us-gaap_BankOwnedLifeInsurance" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxAssetsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxAssetsNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesWithoutReadilyDeterminableFairValueAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesWithoutReadilyDeterminableFairValueAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FederalReserveBankStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FederalReserveBankStock" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestReceivableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestReceivableCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssets" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneous" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneous" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherInvestmentsAndSecuritiesAtCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherInvestmentsAndSecuritiesAtCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:label="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_LIHTCInvestments" xlink:label="wabc_LIHTCInvestments" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FederalReserveBankStock" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherInvestmentsAndSecuritiesAtCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesWithoutReadilyDeterminableFairValueAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BankOwnedLifeInsurance" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxAssetsNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_LIHTCInvestments" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestReceivableCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneous" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_CostMethodEquityInvestmentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssets" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-amounts-recognized-in-net-income-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-amounts-recognized-in-net-income-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-amounts-recognized-in-net-income-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AffordableHousingTaxCreditsAndOtherTaxBenefitsAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AffordableHousingTaxCreditsAndOtherTaxBenefitsAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromAffordableHousingProjectsEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromAffordableHousingProjectsEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromAffordableHousingProjectsEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AffordableHousingTaxCreditsAndOtherTaxBenefitsAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-summary-of-other-liabilities-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-summary-of-other-liabilities-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-summary-of-other-liabilities-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_OtherLiabilitiesExcludingOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="wabc_OtherLiabilitiesExcludingOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_OtherLiabilitiesExcludingOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-summarizes-of-operating-lease-liabilities-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-summarizes-of-operating-lease-liabilities-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-6-other-assets-and-other-liabilities-summarizes-of-operating-lease-liabilities-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFive" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFive" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-details-textual" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetImpairment" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetImpairment" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AmortizationExpenseAdjustmentResultingFromAChangeInEstimatesOfUsefulLivesOrResidualValues" xlink:label="wabc_AmortizationExpenseAdjustmentResultingFromAChangeInEstimatesOfUsefulLivesOrResidualValues" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetImpairment" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_AmortizationExpenseAdjustmentResultingFromAChangeInEstimatesOfUsefulLivesOrResidualValues" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-carrying-values-of-goodwill-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-carrying-values-of-goodwill-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-carrying-values-of-goodwill-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-gross-carrying-amount-of-intangible-assets-and-accumulated-amortization-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-gross-carrying-amount-of-intangible-assets-and-accumulated-amortization-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-gross-carrying-amount-of-intangible-assets-and-accumulated-amortization-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CoreDepositsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CoreDepositsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CoreDepositsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-estimated-future-amortization-expense-for-identifiable-intangible-assets-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-estimated-future-amortization-expense-for-identifiable-intangible-assets-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-7-goodwill-and-identifiable-intangible-assets-estimated-future-amortization-expense-for-identifiable-intangible-assets-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CoreDepositsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CoreDepositsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CoreDepositsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-details-textual" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseTimeDeposits100000OrMore" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseTimeDeposits100000OrMore" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AssetsAvailableToBePledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:label="wabc_AssetsAvailableToBePledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AvailableForSaleAndHeldToMaturityDebtSecurities" xlink:label="wabc_AvailableForSaleAndHeldToMaturityDebtSecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_BankTermFundingProgramMember" xlink:label="wabc_BankTermFundingProgramMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DemandDepositOverdrafts" xlink:label="wabc_DemandDepositOverdrafts" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_FederalReserveMember" xlink:label="wabc_FederalReserveMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:to="wabc_FederalReserveMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="wabc_BankTermFundingProgramMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AssetsAvailableToBePledgedAsCollateralMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PledgedStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PledgedStatusDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DemandDepositOverdrafts" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseTimeDeposits100000OrMore" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_AvailableForSaleAndHeldToMaturityDebtSecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-deposits-detail-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-deposits-detail-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-deposits-detail-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DemandDepositAccounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_DemandDepositAccounts" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_Deposits" xlink:label="us-gaap_Deposits" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DepositsSavingsDeposits" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepositsSavingsDeposits" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NoninterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoninterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TimeDepositsLessThan100000" xlink:label="us-gaap_TimeDepositsLessThan100000" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_InterestbearingAbstract" xlink:label="wabc_InterestbearingAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TimeDeposits100ThousandThrough250Thousand" xlink:label="wabc_TimeDeposits100ThousandThrough250Thousand" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_TimeDepositsMoreThan250Thousand" xlink:label="wabc_TimeDepositsMoreThan250Thousand" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoninterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_InterestbearingAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_InterestbearingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DemandDepositAccounts" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_InterestbearingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepositsSavingsDeposits" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_InterestbearingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_TimeDepositsLessThan100000" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_InterestbearingAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_TimeDeposits100ThousandThrough250Thousand" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_InterestbearingAbstract" xlink:to="wabc_TimeDepositsMoreThan250Thousand" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="wabc_InterestbearingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Deposits" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-shortterm-borrowed-funds-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-shortterm-borrowed-funds-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-8-deposits-and-borrowed-funds-shortterm-borrowed-funds-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CarryingValueOfSecuritiesSoldUnderRepurchaseAgreementsAndDepositsReceivedForSecuritiesLoaned" xlink:label="us-gaap_CarryingValueOfSecuritiesSoldUnderRepurchaseAgreementsAndDepositsReceivedForSecuritiesLoaned" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermBorrowings" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermBorrowings" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CarryingValueOfSecuritiesSoldUnderRepurchaseAgreementsAndDepositsReceivedForSecuritiesLoaned" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermBorrowings" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements-assets-measured-at-fair-value-on-a-recurring-basis-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements-assets-measured-at-fair-value-on-a-recurring-basis-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements-assets-measured-at-fair-value-on-a-recurring-basis-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CollateralizedLoanObligationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CollateralizedLoanObligationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:label="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyResidentialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="wabc_AgencyCommercialMBSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USGovernmentAgenciesDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialInstrumentsTypesOfFinancialInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CollateralizedLoanObligationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements-fair-value-estimates-for-financial-instruments-excluding-financial-instruments-on-a-recurring-basis-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements-fair-value-estimates-for-financial-instruments-excluding-financial-instruments-on-a-recurring-basis-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-9-fair-value-measurements-fair-value-estimates-for-financial-instruments-excluding-financial-instruments-on-a-recurring-basis-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DepositsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepositsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LoansReceivableFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansReceivableFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SecuritiesLoanedOrSoldUnderAgreementsToRepurchaseFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_SecuritiesLoanedOrSoldUnderAgreementsToRepurchaseFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_DebtSecuritiesHeldtomaturityFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansReceivableFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepositsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SecuritiesLoanedOrSoldUnderAgreementsToRepurchaseFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-10-commitments-and-contingent-liabilities-details-textual" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-10-commitments-and-contingent-liabilities-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-10-commitments-and-contingent-liabilities-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialStandbyLetterOfCreditMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialStandbyLetterOfCreditMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsCurrentCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsCurrentCarryingValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_LoanCommitmentsNotUnconditionallyCancellable" xlink:label="wabc_LoanCommitmentsNotUnconditionallyCancellable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_ReserveForUnfundedCommitments" xlink:label="wabc_ReserveForUnfundedCommitments" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#wabc_UnfundedLoanCommitments" xlink:label="wabc_UnfundedLoanCommitments" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialStandbyLetterOfCreditMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_LoanCommitmentsNotUnconditionallyCancellable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_UnfundedLoanCommitments" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsCurrentCarryingValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="wabc_ReserveForUnfundedCommitments" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share-details-textual" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share-earnings-per-common-share-and-diluted-earnings-per-common-share-details" xlink:href="wabc-20250331.xsd#statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share-earnings-per-common-share-and-diluted-earnings-per-common-share-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.westamerica.com/20250331/role/statement-note-11-earnings-per-common-share-earnings-per-common-share-and-diluted-earnings-per-common-share-details" xlink:type="extended">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustment" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustment" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:type="locator"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustment" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
    <link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:type="arc"/>
  </link:definitionLink>
</link:linkbase>
