Imtiaz as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Imtiaz

What is the meaning of the name Imtiaz ?

The baby name Imtiaz is a Male name , 3 syllables long and is pronounced /ɪmˈtiːɑːz/ — im-TEE-ahz (also heard as im-TEE-yaz).

Imtiaz is Arabic in Origin.

Imtiaz (Arabic: امتياز; also transliterated Imtiyaz, Emtiaz, Imteaz) stems from the Arabic triliteral root m‑y‑z “to distinguish, set apart.” As a noun (imtiyāz), it signifies distinction, excellence, or special privilege, so the given name conveys the sense of outstanding merit and being marked out for honor. Usage spans Arabic, Persian, and Urdu, entering South Asian languages through Persianate literary culture.

Common among Muslim families from the mid‑20th century onward, the name is widespread in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh and also appears across the Gulf and diaspora communities. It is primarily masculine, though occasionally borne by women, and sometimes functions as a surname. Notable bearers include filmmaker Imtiaz Ali and cricketer Imtiaz Ahmed; poet Imtiaz Dharker illustrates its broader reach. Regional spellings vary, with Bengali-influenced Emtiaz/Imteaz especially common.