Abigail: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Abigail mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Hebrew: Father's joy or source of joy

Gender: Female

Syllables: 3

Pronunciation: The name Abigail is pronounced ab-i-gayl

The name Abigail has its origins in the Hebrew language and is found in the Old Testament. In the Hebrew Bible, Abigail is described as intelligent and beautiful, initially the wife of Nabal. She later becomes one of the wives of King David, known for her wisdom and prophetic abilities, which makes her a significant figure in biblical history.

Girl name variations

Abigail in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Abigail "Abby" Sciuto from NCIS - A quirky and talented forensic scientist with a goth fashion sense.
Abigail Chase from National Treasure - A historian and archivist who loves adventure.
Abigail Hobbs from Hannibal - A complex character with a dark connection to the titular character.
Abigail Williams from The Crucible - A manipulative young woman who sparks hysteria in a witch trial.
Abigail Stanton from When Calls the Heart - A resilient widow in a frontier town who becomes a community leader.

Popularity of the Name Abigail

According to Social Security Administration data, the name Abigail has enjoyed a consistent popularity, frequently appearing in the top 10 names for girls in the United States over recent years. This name combines historical depth with modern charm, making it a perennial favorite among parents.

The name Abigail has biblical roots, attributed to a wise and prophetic woman who became the second wife of King David. This historical significance lends the name an enduring appeal. In addition to its historical and biblical origins, the name Abigail has been borne by influential figures in literature and the arts. Notably, Abigail Adams, the wife of President John Adams and mother of President John Quincy Adams, is remembered as an early advocate for women's rights and a key figure in American history.

The name Abigail may have seen a recent rise in popularity thanks to stars like actresses Abigail Ratchford, Abigail Breslin, and Abigail Spencer. It is also the name of three First Ladies, and has been featured in shows like Days of Our Lives, Mad Men, and Skins.