Coral
Female nameLatin
✨ Meaning
Coral comes through Latin 'corallium' from the Greek 'korallion,' the marine organism whose limestone skeletons build reefs. The word names both a living creature and a colour, the warm pink-orange of polished red coral, so the name works simultaneously as a nature name and a colour name. Mediterranean cultures long wore coral as a protective charm for infants, which gives it an old association with the care of children.
🌍 Origin
Coral joined the English stock of jewel and colour names in the nineteenth century, alongside Pearl, Ruby and Opal, and has been used quietly ever since. It is also a Spanish given name. The word's modern association with reef conservation has given it an environmental resonance that the Victorians could not have anticipated.
⭐ Famous People Named Coral
- Coral Browne
- Coral Bracho
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Coral mean?
Coral names the reef-building marine organism and the warm pink-orange colour of polished red coral, from Greek 'korallion.'
Is Coral a jewel name?
It is usually grouped with jewel names such as Pearl, Ruby and Opal, though coral is an organic material rather than a mineral.
Is Coral used outside English?
Yes. Coral is an established Spanish given name and the word is recognisable across the Romance languages.