Liane Moriarty

Abigael is a feminine name representing a variation of the Hebrew name Abigail, meaning 'father's joy' or 'source of joy.' This spelling with the 'ae' combination gives the traditional name a slightly more distinctive and elegant appearance. While less common than the standard Abigail spelling, Abigael has attracted parents seeking a more unique version of the classic name. The biblical Abigail was known for her beauty, wisdom, and intelligence—qualities that continue to be associated with the name. Abigael has seen modest usage in various Western countries, appealing to those drawn to names with religious significance and historical depth while maintaining a contemporary feel. The name offers the friendly nickname options of Abby, Gael, or Ella.

Carmel is a masculine name with rich biblical and geographical origins. Derived from Hebrew 'Karmel' meaning 'garden' or 'vineyard of God,' it refers to Mount Carmel in Israel, a significant location in biblical history. While Carmel is used for both genders, it has traditionally been more common for boys in countries with strong Catholic traditions, particularly in Ireland and Italy. The name evokes natural beauty and spiritual significance, with connections to the Carmelite religious order as well. As a male name, Carmel has maintained steady but modest usage, appreciated for its soft sound combined with historic strength. Its biblical roots appeal to religious families, while its natural connotations attract those seeking a name with depth and meaningful associations.

Josh is a friendly, approachable masculine name that originated as a shortened form of Joshua, which comes from Hebrew meaning 'God is salvation.' While Joshua has biblical significance as the successor to Moses, Josh emerged as a standalone name in the 20th century, embodying a casual, down-to-earth quality. It gained significant popularity in the 1970s through the 1990s in the United States, ranking consistently in the top 100 names. Josh conveys an accessible, unpretentious character with its brief, one-syllable structure. The name suggests a straightforward, trustworthy personality and has maintained steady usage without seeming dated or trendy. Josh represents a perfect balance of familiarity and timelessness in contemporary naming practices.