Abigail was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance, married to a harsh and foolish man named Nabal. When Nabal insulted David and disaster loomed, Abigail acted quickly and wisely — riding out with provisions and a humble, brilliant appeal that turned David from bloodshed. He blessed God for her discernment.
After Nabal's death she became David's wife. Her name means my father's joy, and she is remembered for the rare combination of beauty, courage, and wisdom.
Abigail has been a top-ranked classic for years — elegant and warmly shortened to Abby.
Variants & nicknames
Abby, Abbey, Abigael, Gail
Abigail in the Bible
Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb.