Ishaq

Meaning & origin

Ishaq, the Arabic form of Isaac, has been given to boys in the United States since at least 1977, though its recorded use has grown notably over the decades. In 2025, the name reached its peak rank at 2,798, with a frequency of 1 in 37,957 births, continuing a rising trajectory that began in 1988. The name is most common in New York, New Jersey, and Michigan, reflecting concentrations of Muslim American families who honor the prophet Ishaq. Its religious associations give it enduring significance in Islamic tradition, while its clear etymology ties it to the biblical story of Isaac's laughter. As a name that carries both spiritual weight and a gentle meaning, Ishaq remains a distinct choice for families seeking a name with deep roots.

Ishaq is the Arabic form of the Hebrew name Yitzhak (Isaac), from the Semitic root meaning 'he laughs' or 'he will laugh.' In the Quran, Ishaq is revered as a prophet and the son of Ibrahim (Abraham). The name has been used across the Muslim world for centuries, reflecting its biblical and Quranic heritage.