Ismailov

Ismailov is a surname of Turkic and Slavic-influenced origin, formed as a patronymic from the given name Ismail (Ishmael). The masculine suffix -ov, common in Russian and other Slavic naming traditions, indicates a family name derived from an ancestor named Ismail; the feminine form is Ismailova.

Etymology and variants: The root Ismail traces back to the name Ishmael, widely used in Muslim and Abrahamic cultures. In Cyrillic transliteration, the name appears as Исмаилов or Исмаилова, with local adaptations such as İsmayilov in Azerbaijani or Ismáilov in some transliterations. Variants may include Ismaylov and related forms, reflecting different linguistic and regional practices.

Geographic distribution: The surname is common in Azerbaijan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and other countries of the former Soviet space where Turkic languages or Russian naming conventions are prevalent. It is also present among diaspora communities around the world. The prevalence of the name reflects historical population movements and the blending of Turkic and Slavic naming systems.

Usage and characteristics: As a hereditary surname, Ismailov does not necessarily indicate current paternal lineage beyond the family line. It is used by individuals of various ethnic and religious backgrounds, particularly among communities with roots in Turkic-speaking regions and the broader Muslim world. Feminine forms such as Ismailova are used for women in many Slavic-speaking contexts.

See also: Ismail (given name) and patronymic surname practices in Turkic and Slavic cultures.