Abigail

Abigail (ab-uh-gayl) is a feminine name that is used in the English and German languages. Abigail is also a Biblical name. Abigail is derived from the Hebrew name Avigayil menaing "my father is joy". In the Old Testament, Abigail is the wife of Nabal who became the wife of David after Nabal's death.

This name first became popular after the Protestant Reformation and was common among the Puritans. At the start of the 17th century, the play 'The Scornful Lady' and because of the biblical Abigail calling herself a servant caused the name to have a more negative meaning. Because of this, the name became less common until it was revived during the 20th century.

Variants: Abegail, Abigayle

Diminutives: Abby, Abbey, Abbie, Abbi, Gail, Gale, Gayle, Gayla, Gaila