Coraline

girlEnglish (modern)

Coraline is an girl name of English (modern), French origin, meaning “Coral; a variant of Caroline”.

MeaningCoral; a variant of Caroline
GenderGirl
OriginEnglish (modern), French
PronunciationKOR-uh-lyne
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, France, United Kingdom

Meaning and origin of Coraline

Coraline is best known from Neil Gaiman's 2002 novella Coraline and the 2009 animated film, in which a girl discovers a sinister 'other' world. Gaiman has said the name began as a typing slip for Caroline. A similar French name, Coralie, comes from the word for coral, and many parents now connect Coraline with coral as well.

Is Coraline a religious name?

Coraline has no religious background; it is a modern literary name.

How popular is Coraline?

Used increasingly since the film, but still uncommon.

Gifts with the name Coraline

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Spellings and variants of Coraline

CoralieCoralinaCaroline

Names similar to Coraline

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Coraline mean?

Coraline means 'Coral; a variant of Caroline'. It is of English (modern), French origin.

Does Coraline have a religious meaning?

Coraline has no religious background; it is a modern literary name.

How do you pronounce Coraline?

Coraline is pronounced KOR-uh-lyne.

Is Coraline a boy or girl name?

Coraline is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.