Pronunciation: [kˈɒɹɐlˌa͡ɪn] (IPA) 
The word "coralline" is spelled "kɒrəlaɪn" in IPA phonetic transcription. The "c" in "coralline" is replaced by the letter "k" in the transcription because it makes the "k" sound. The letter "a" is pronounced as "æ" in the transcription because it is short and followed by the letter "l," which makes the "æ" sound. Lastly, the letter "e" at the end of the word is pronounced as "ɪn" because it makes the sound of the suffix "-ine."
Coralline is an adjective that refers to something resembling or relating to coral. It derives from the noun "coral," which refers to the hard, often calcium carbonate, structure formed by certain marine invertebrates, mainly of the orders Anthozoa and Hydrozoa.
In a broader sense, coralline describes anything that shares characteristics with coral, such as its color or structure. For instance, a coralline rock or substance is one that has a branching, jagged, or coral-like appearance.
In marine biology, coralline specifically refers to a type of red algae from the family Corallinaceae. These algae are typically calcified, meaning they are coated with calcium carbonate deposits, which gives them a rigid and coral-like structure. Coralline algae play a vital role in reef ecosystems as they contribute to the formation and structure of coral reefs. They provide a hard substrate for coral larvae to settle on and help bind the reef together.
Coralline can also describe the pink or reddish pigmentation found in some organisms or materials. This pigmentation often resembles the colors seen in coral, hence the reference to coralline. Examples of coralline colors can be found in various flowers, shells, or minerals that exhibit shades of pink or red similar to the hues seen in coral.
Overall, coralline refers to anything resembling or pertaining to coral or its characteristics, including its appearance, structure, or coloration.
• Of or like coral.
• A coral-like substance; small corals resembling moss.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "coralline" has its roots in the Latin word "corallium" which referred to coral, the hard stony substance secreted by certain marine polyps. The Latin word can be traced back to the Greek word "korallion" which had the same meaning. Both the Latin and Greek words are believed to have originated from an ancient Semitic language.
