Salma

“peaceful, safe”

Arabic origin · Unisex name

♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls

#906US 2023

295Births / yr

↓Falling

8.8kAll-time births

📅 Since 191800.02% of births at peak

How to pronounce Salma

SALM·AH

/ˈsælm.ˈɑ/ · stress on SALM · 2 syllables

“peaceful, safe”

Arabic origin · Unisex name

What does Salma mean and where does it come from?

The name Salma (سَلْمَى) has its roots in Arabic and means 'peaceful' or 'safe'. It is a common name in many Arabic-speaking countries and has historical significance in Islamic culture. The name conveys a sense of tranquility and security. Salma has also appeared in various literatures and modern m

Cultural significance

Salma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Arabic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of peaceful, safe.

Peak popularity

Reached #569 in 1999 — currently #906 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Salma?

Salma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Salma Grace

How popular is Salma right now?

Declining — down 9 spots — currently #906 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1975–2023#906 · Top 0.67%

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#906	295	▼ down 9 · -5% births
2022	#897	311	▲ up 24 · +8% births
2021	#921	289	▲ up 118 · +21% births
2020	#1039	239	▼ down 238 · -32% births
2015	#801	351	▲ up 82 · +17% births
2010	#883	300	▼ down 135 · -16% births
2005	#748	358	▼ down 76
2000	#672	359	▲ up 1920 · +648% births
1995	#2592	48	▲ up 388 · +26% births
1990	#2980	38	▲ up 2772 · +217% births
1985	#5752	12	▲ up 255 · +9% births
1980	#6007	11	▲ up 99 · +22% births
1975	#6106	9	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Salma

Best Year2000Rank #672

Peak Count359

Average Rank#2331

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1975 - 202313 years

The story of Salma

Salma entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. With 8,824 total births recorded, Salma remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6106 in 1975 to #906 in 2023. Salma is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.

Names that peaked alongside Salma in 1999:

Emily Hannah Alexis Sarah Samantha

Salma by decade

Salma peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	6
1970s	54
1980s	177
1990s	1,534
2000s ★	3,488
2010s	3,326
2020s	239

💎With 8,824 total births, Salma is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Salma?

Common

SalSa

Famous people named Salma

Salma (Arab poet)

Salma carried this name in the rich tradition of classical Arabic poetry.

Salma (Quranic figure)

Salma appears in the Quran or Hadith, giving this name deep Islamic spiritual significance.

Salma (Arab poet)

Salma carried this name in the rich tradition of classical Arabic poetry.

Salma (historical Arab ruler)

Salma held this name across the Umayyad or Abbasid Caliphates, spreading its use widely.

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Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

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What names sound and feel like Salma?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Salma also consider these

Salwa

Arabic · safe, sound, and

American · the one who

Valma

Estonia · to blossom

How is Salma written in other languages?

سلمى

Arabic

Common questions about the name Salma

What does the name Salma mean?

Salma means "peaceful, 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 Salma?

Salma is currently ranked #906 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Salma?

Salma 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 Salma?

Salma is a two-syllable name pronounced S AE1 L M AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Salma a common or rare name?

Salma is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.