reef builder

1 definition found

reef builder - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Reef \Reef\ (r[=e]f), n. [Akin to D. rif, G. riff, Icel. rif,
     Dan. rev; cf. Icel. rifa rift, rent, fissure, rifa to rive,
     bear. Cf. Rift, Rive.]
     1. A chain or range of rocks lying at or near the surface of
        the water. See Coral reefs, under Coral.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. (Mining.) A large vein of auriferous quartz; -- so called
        in Australia. Hence, any body of rock yielding valuable
        ore.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     Reef builder (Zool.), any stony coral which contributes
        material to the formation of coral reefs.
  
     Reef heron (Zool.), any heron of the genus Demigretta;
        as, the blue reef heron (Demigretta jugularis) of
        Australia.
        [1913 Webster]