salaam

[ suh-lahm ]

noun

1. a salutation meaning “peace,” used especially in Islamic countries.
2. a very low bow or obeisance, especially with the palm of the right hand placed on the forehead.

verb (used with or without object)

1. to salute with a salaam.

salaam

/ səˈlɑːm /

noun

1. a Muslim form of salutation consisting of a deep bow with the right palm on the forehead
2. a salutation signifying peace, used chiefly by Muslims

verb

1. to make a salaam or salute (someone) with a salaam

Other Words From

• sa·laamlike adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of salaam¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from Arabic salām “peace,” cognate with Hebrew shalom ( def ), from common Semitic šalām

Word History and Origins

Origin of salaam¹

C17: from Arabic salām peace, from the phrase assalām `alaikum peace be to you

Example Sentences

“The minute you say, ‘salaam alaikum’ — ‘hello,’ you know — you give them a lot.

From New York Times

"Hey, salaam! Sorry about intruding in your lovely forest, but I was wondering if we might borrow that canoe?"

From Literature

Okay, give my salaams to your parents, and I will talk to you later.”

From Literature

“Wa alaikum salaam, Aunty, and thank you. Are you coming with us?”

From Literature

“It’s something I have wondered about: a man who was totally alone, a person who doesn’t socialize, just ‘salaam alaikum,’ and then moves on,” Mr. Mehdi said.

From New York Times