Coraline: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “corallium,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek “korállion (κοράλλιον)” which means “coral, hard skeleton".It derives from the Greek word "korállion > corallium".
In Greek tradition, Coraline holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from the Latin “corallium,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek “korállion (κοράλλιον)” which means “coral, hard skeleton. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Greek culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.
Quick Facts About Coraline
Quick facts about Coraline
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Uncommon
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Latin “corallium,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek “korállion (κοράλλιον)” which means “coral, hard skeleton. It reflects a feeling of enduring beauty. The name is in memory of Saint Koralia, one of the forty martyrs of Heraclea in the fourth century. Coraline is a horror fantasy novella by British author Neil Gaiman, published in 2002 by Bloomsbury and Harper Collins.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
korállion > corallium
How to Pronounce Coraline
Coraline is pronounced /ˈkɔː.ɹə.laɪn/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Cor-al-in-e
Say it like: "COR-AL-IN-E"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across english, and french speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
englishfrench
Name Relationships
Coraline is an affectionate diminutive of Coral, commonly used in english speaking regions. This shortened form maintains the original meaning while offering a more intimate, familiar tone.
Coraline means "This name derives from the Latin “corallium,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek “korállion (κοράλλιον)” which means “coral, hard skeleton. It reflects a feeling of enduring beauty. The name is in memory of Saint Koralia, one of the forty martyrs of Heraclea in the fourth century. Coraline is a horror fantasy novella by British author Neil Gaiman, published in 2002 by Bloomsbury and Harper Collins.". The name comes from korállion > corallium. In its original form, the name derives from korállion (κοράλλιον). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Coraline for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “corallium,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek “korállion (κοράλλιον)” which means “coral, hard skeleton. It reflects a feeling of enduring beauty. The name is in memory of Saint Koralia, one of the forty martyrs of Heraclea in the fourth century. Coraline is a horror fantasy novella by British author Neil Gaiman, published in 2002 by Bloomsbury and Harper Collins." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Coraline offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Coraline?
Coraline is a greek name. The name traces back to korállion > corallium. The original form korállion (κοράλλιον) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Coraline spread to become common in english, french. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Latin “corallium,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek “korállion (κοράλλιον)” which means “coral, hard skeleton. It reflects a feeling of enduring beauty. The name is in memory of Saint Koralia, one of the forty martyrs of Heraclea in the fourth century. Coraline is a horror fantasy novella by British author Neil Gaiman, published in 2002 by Bloomsbury and Harper Collins." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Coraline a boy or girl name?
Coraline is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Coraline has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “corallium,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek “korállion (κοράλλιον)” which means “coral, hard skeleton. It reflects a feeling of enduring beauty. The name is in memory of Saint Koralia, one of the forty martyrs of Heraclea in the fourth century. Coraline is a horror fantasy novella by British author Neil Gaiman, published in 2002 by Bloomsbury and Harper Collins." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Coraline?
Coraline is pronounced "/ˈkɔː.ɹə.laɪn/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Coraline is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, french, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Coraline can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root korállion > corallium influences how Coraline sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Coraline?
Coraline is commonly used as a nickname for Coral. As a diminutive of Coral, Coraline started as an affectionate short form used by family and close friends. Many people named Coral go by Coraline throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In greek cultures, using Coraline as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Coraline as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Coraline on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Coraline?
Coraline is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Coraline gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Coraline's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “corallium,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek “korállion (κοράλλιον)” which means “coral, hard skeleton. It reflects a feeling of enduring beauty. The name is in memory of Saint Koralia, one of the forty martyrs of Heraclea in the fourth century. Coraline is a horror fantasy novella by British author Neil Gaiman, published in 2002 by Bloomsbury and Harper Collins." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Coraline holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Coraline commonly used?
Coraline is common in english and french naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Coraline found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “corallium,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek “korállion (κοράλλιον)” which means “coral, hard skeleton. It reflects a feeling of enduring beauty. The name is in memory of Saint Koralia, one of the forty martyrs of Heraclea in the fourth century. Coraline is a horror fantasy novella by British author Neil Gaiman, published in 2002 by Bloomsbury and Harper Collins." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Coraline into their naming traditions. A child named Coraline will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Coraline is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.