Bible Dictionary
Ab
Ab was the name of a month in the Hebrew calendar. The term also occurs as part of several personal names and is related to the Aramaic form Abba, meaning father or one who possesses.
Definition
Ab is an element found in the composition of many proper names. It is related to Abba, a Chaldaic form, and carries the sense of “endowed with” or “possessed of.” The term therefore contributes a meaning of possession or endowment when incorporated into a personal name. It is also identified with the name of a month in the Hebrew calendar.
Biblical Usage
In biblical names, Ab functions as a name element associated with “father.” The related form Abba is a Chaldaic expression conveying the sense of being endowed with or possessed of something.
Historical Background
Ab belongs to the Hebrew calendar. Its related Aramaic or Chaldaic form is Abba, and the element appears in the composition of many proper names.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
See Month. (father), an element in the composition of many proper names, of which Abba is a Chaldaic form, having the sense of “endowed with,” “possessed of.”