ENGLISH
REFERENCE

abigail

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈæbəˌɡeɪɫ// UK //ˈæbɪɡˌeɪl// abi·gail Archaic

n. a female given name. It is a traditional name that has been popular in English-speaking countries for centuries.

n. a feminine given name of Hebrew origin, historically associated with the biblical figure who served as a nurse and companion to Sarah. Common in English-speaking cultures since the 17th century.


SIMPLE

Abigail is reading a book in the garden.

CONTEXTUAL

Abigail signed her name at the top of the letter before sealing the envelope.

COMPLEX

The character of Abigail Williams in Arthur Miller's play serves as a catalyst for the hysteria that consumes the small Puritan community.

Origin

From Hebrew אֲבִיגַיִל (avigáyil, “Abigail”, literally “my Father's joy” or “fountain of joy”).

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