Abigail

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Abigail

Gender Girl
Origin Hebrew
Letters 7
Syllables 3
Pronunciation AB-uh-gayl

Abigail, which has 7 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of Hebrew origin.

Meaning of Abigail

My father's joy

Abigail is a Hebrew name meaning “father’s joy” or “my father is joy.” It is a popular name in many English-speaking countries, and is often associated with the biblical Abigail, King David’s wise and beautiful wife.

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Meaning My father's joy
Origin Hebrew
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #32 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Popular (Top 50)
Era 2000s name

Background & History of The Name Abigail

The name Abigail is of Hebrew origin and is derived from the Hebrew name Avigayil, meaning "my father is joy" or "father's joy". It is a popular name with Biblical roots and is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Samuel.

In the Bible, Abigail is depicted as an intelligent and beautiful woman who was married to a wealthy man named Nabal. When Nabal refused to provide provisions to David and his men, who were fleeing from Saul, Abigail took matters into her own hands. She secretly gathered food and supplies for David's group and approached him humbly, seeking his forgiveness and averting bloodshed. David was deeply impressed by Abigail's wisdom and righteousness and blessed her for her actions. After Nabal's death, David married Abigail, making her his third wife.

The name Abigail has remained popular throughout history and has been used by various cultures. In addition to its Hebrew origins, Abigail has also gained popularity in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States. It has consistently ranked among the top 100 names for girls in recent years.

Abigail's positive meanings and associations have contributed to its enduring popularity. The name symbolizes joy, happiness, and prosperity, reflecting the joyfulness and wisdom brought by Abigail in the Bible. The character traits associated with Abigail include intelligence, beauty, humility, and resourcefulness, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with biblical and timeless qualities.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Abigail over the years.

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