Salem
Salem: name meaning, origin and popularity
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈseɪləm/
Meaning and origin of Salem
- A female given name from Hebrew.
- A male given name from Arabic.
Etymology
From Biblical Hebrew שָׁלֵם (šālēm) (Genesis 14:18).
How popular is Salem?
Since 1880, 6,491 girls and 4,687 boys in the U.S. have been named Salem (58% girls). Its highest rank for girls was #417 in 2023. Its highest rank for boys was #631 in 2023. In 2025 it ranked #436 for girls, with 1,111 babies given the name.
Names similar to Salem
Names that start with the same letters, most popular first.
More Hebrew unisex names
Sibling name ideas for Salem
Sister and brother names that share Salem's Hebrew roots and are still in the U.S. top 1,000.
Salem FAQ
What does the name Salem mean?
A female given name from Hebrew. A male given name from Arabic. From Biblical Hebrew שָׁלֵם (šālēm) (Genesis 14:18).
What is the origin of the name Salem?
Salem is listed as a name of Hebrew origin.
How popular is the name Salem?
Since 1880, 6,491 girls and 4,687 boys in the U.S. have been named Salem (58% girls). Its highest rank for girls was #417 in 2023. Its highest rank for boys was #631 in 2023. In 2025 it ranked #436 for girls, with 1,111 babies given the name.
Is Salem a boy or girl name?
Salem is used for both boys and girls in the U.S. (6,491 girls and 4,687 boys since 1880).
Popularity data: U.S. Social Security Administration baby name data, 1880–2025 (names given to 5+ babies per year). Origin and etymology text: Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.