Izak

Izak is a masculine given name used in Dutch- and Afrikaans-speaking communities, and occasionally in other European or diaspora contexts. It is a variant of Isaac and can also appear as a surname in some families. The spelling Izak reflects Dutch and Afrikaans orthographic conventions, where Izaak or Izak have been used historically.

Etymology and usage of the name trace to the Hebrew Yitzhak, meaning “he will laugh” or “laughter,” a reference to the biblical Isaac. The form Izak arose through transliteration and phonetic adaptation in Dutch and Afrikaans, with Izaak being a traditional variant and Izak a shorter form that has become common in modern usage. Pronunciation varies by language and region; in Dutch and Afrikaans it is typically rendered as EE-zak, while in some English-speaking contexts it may be pronounced EYE-zak.

Variations and related names include Isaac (the English form), Izaac and Izaak (alternate Dutch/Afrikaans spellings), and Izsák (the Hungarian form). The name is used in both religious and secular contexts and remains present in contemporary naming practices in the Netherlands, Belgium, South Africa, and among communities with Dutch or Hebrew heritage.