What does Saleema mean and where does it come from?
Saleema (سَلِيمَة) is a feminine name rooted in Arabic, meaning 'safe' or 'whole.' The name is used widely in various Islamic cultures and conveys imagery of safety, completeness, and tranquility. It highlights a protective, nurturing aspect in its bearers. Renowned figures in the Islamic world carr
Cultural significance
Saleema has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Arabic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of safe.
Peak popularity
Reached #6476 in 1976 — currently #590 in the US.
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Related Reading
Arabic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Saleema?
Saleema works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Saleema Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Saleema Rose
Floral · soft ending
Saleema Mae
Sweet · timeless
Saleema Claire
French influence · crisp
Saleema Jane
Literary · strong
Saleema Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Saleema right now?
Holding steady — currently #590 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #590 | 1,610 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #595 | 1,590 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #600 | 1,560 | ▲ up 14783 · +25900% births |
| 2010 | #15383 | 6 | ▲ up 232 · +20% births |
| 2000 | #15615 | 5 | ▼ down 5744 · -37% births |
| 1995 | #9871 | 8 | ▲ up 2081 · +33% births |
| 1990 | #11952 | 6 | — |
The story of Saleema
Saleema is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1971. With 197 total births recorded, Saleema remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #11952 in 1990 to #590 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Saleema in 1976:
Saleema by decade
Saleema peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 28 | |
| 1980s | 45 | |
| 1990s ★ | 50 | |
| 2000s | 44 | |
| 2010s | 30 | |
💎Saleema has only 197 total recorded births since 1971 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Saleema?
Famous people named Saleema
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Saleema (Quranic figure)
Saleema appears in the Quran or Hadith, giving this name deep Islamic spiritual significance.
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Saleema (historical Arab ruler)
Saleema held this name across the Umayyad or Abbasid Caliphates, spreading its use widely.
S(
Saleema (Sufi mystic)
Saleema used this name in the tradition of Islamic mysticism and spirituality.
S(
Saleema (Islamic scholar)
Saleema bore this name in the Golden Age of Islam, when Arabic names carried prestige across the known world.
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Saleema?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Saleema also consider these
Common questions about the name Saleema
What does the name Saleema mean?
Saleema means "Safe" — a name rooted in Arabic tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Saleema?
Saleema is currently ranked #590 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Saleema?
Saleema originates from Arabic tradition. Arabic names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Saleema?
Saleema is a three-syllable name pronounced S AE1 L IY1 M AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Saleema?
Saleema pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Arabic heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.