Salma
Salma first appears in US records in 1918. It peaked in 1999, when 442 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 278.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Salma popular?
Steady Salma has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1999.
| 2020s | 1,724 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 3,321 | |
| 2000s | 3,488 | |
| 1990s | 1,535 | |
| 1980s | 178 | |
| 1970s | 59 | |
| 1910s | 6 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Salma mean?
Salma (سلمى, salma) comes from the Arabic root s-l-m ('peace, safety, soundness') - the same root as salam and Islam - and means 'safe, peaceful, unharmed'. It is a classical name used in early Arabic poetry.
Names like Salma
arabic names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Salma
Popular arabic names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Salma
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Frequently asked questions
What does the name Salma mean?
Salma means Safe, peaceful. Salma (سلمى, salma) comes from the Arabic root s-l-m ('peace, safety, soundness') - the same root as salam and Islam - and means 'safe, peaceful, unharmed'. It is a classical name used in early Arabic poetry.
What is the origin of the name Salma?
Salma is of arabic origin.
How do you pronounce Salma?
Salma is pronounced “SAL-mah.”
Is Salma a boy or a girl name?
Salma is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Salma a popular name right now?
Salma has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1999.
How popular is the name Salma?
In 2025, Salma ranked #937 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Salma most popular?
Salma was most popular in 1999, when about 442 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Salma?
Names similar to Salma include Noor, Inaya, Lina, Layan, Yara.
What names go well with Salma?
arabic names that pair well with Salma include Adam, Layla, Aaliyah, Malik, Amir.