Salma

Meaning & origin

Salma is a name of Arabic origin meaning peaceful, drawn from the triliteral root s-l-m that also gives us salaam (peace). In the United States, Salma first appeared on record in 1918 but remained quite rare for decades. Its real ascent began around 1985, and by the peak year of 1999 it had climbed significantly in popularity. In 2025, Salma ranks 936th with approximately 1 in every 5,782 newborn girls receiving the name, continuing a rising trajectory that has been steady since the mid-1980s. The name has found particular favor in states such as Minnesota, Maryland, and Florida. Parents today often choose Salma for its melodic sound, cross-cultural appeal, and the serene meaning that lies at its heart.

Salma is a feminine name of Arabic origin, derived from the root s-l-m, which conveys concepts of peace, safety, and wholeness (the same root as the word Islam). It is the feminine form of Salim and has been used across the Arabic-speaking world for centuries. The name also appears in Spanish-speaking cultures, where it may be associated with the Spanish word for soul (alma).