US Popularity Rank: 10635

Origin: British

Meaning: Father of exaltation, joyful father

Abbey is a gender-neutral name that means "father of exaltation" or “joyful father.” Although it might be most popular as a girl's name, it can also be used as a nickname for masculine names like Abbott and Abe. Abbey is derived from the Hebrew name Abigail. In the Book of Solomon in the Jewish Bible and the Christian Old Testament, Abigail is the name of King David's second wife, who was renowned for her beauty and intelligence. Abbey could also be considered a topographic name of English, French, and Latin origins, for someone who lived near an abbey or monastery. Plus, its connections to the likes of Downton Abbey, the iconic Abbey Road Beatles album, or jazz singer Abbey Lincoln make it even cooler. Abbey offers the best of both worlds—a modern sound that's still steeped in history and tradition.