Abigail
Meaning & Origin
Abigail comes from the Hebrew Avigayil, meaning “my father’s joy” or “source of joy.” In the Hebrew Bible, Abigail was known for her wisdom and quick thinking, later becoming a wife of King David — giving the name a legacy of intelligence and grace.
Popularity
Abigail has been a steady top-30 girl name in the US for over a decade, part of the broader revival of biblical and Puritan-era names that began in the 1990s and has held strong ever since.
Nicknames & Variations
Common nicknames include Abby, Abbie, and Gail. International variations include Avigail (Hebrew) and Abigael.
Similar Names
Hannah, Elizabeth, Eleanor, Charlotte, and Josephine share Abigail’s classic biblical warmth.
Personality & Trivia
Abigail is often seen as bright and quick-witted, drawing on the biblical figure remembered for her wisdom and diplomacy. Its warm nickname Abby balances its formal biblical weight with everyday approachability.
Famous People Named Abigail
- Abigail Adams, First Lady and wife of President John Adams
- Abigail Breslin, actress
Quick Facts
- Gender: Girl
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: “My father’s joy”
- Pronunciation: AB-ih-gayl