Abby

Abby is a feminine given name, commonly a diminutive of Abigail, though it is frequently used as a standalone name as well. The name Abigail derives from Hebrew Avigail, meaning “my father’s joy” or “father’s joy.” In the Bible, Abigail is described as wise and discerning, and the name has remained in use across various cultures and languages. Abby is also spelled Abbie, Abbi, Abi, or Abbey in different contexts.

In English-speaking countries, Abby has been a popular choice since the 20th century and continues to be used for real people as well as fictional characters. It is often chosen for its simple, friendly sound and flexibility as a nickname or given name.

Notable people named Abby include Abby Wambach, an American soccer player and advocate; Abby Johnson, an American author and anti-abortion activist; Abby Huntsman, an American journalist and former co-host of The View; Abby Elliott, an American actress and comedian; and Abby Lee Miller, an American dance instructor and television personality. In fiction, Abby Sciuto is a forensic scientist on the TV series NCIS, and Abby Cadabby is a fairy character on Sesame Street.

See also: Abbey, Abbie (name), and Abigail, the longer form from which Abby is derived.