A feminine given name, typically a diminutive form of Abigail. Also refers to various places and organizations with this name.
From Hebrew 'Abigail' meaning 'my father's joy' or 'source of joy.' The name appears in the Old Testament as the wife of King David. 'Abby' emerged as a nickname in English-speaking countries.
The name Abby gained massive cultural recognition through 'Dear Abby,' the advice column started by Pauline Phillips in 1956, which became one of the most widely syndicated newspaper features in history. Interestingly, Pauline's twin sister also wrote a competing advice column under a pen name.
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