Salem
Salem is a girl name of Hebrew origin meaning “Peace”, pronounced SAY-lum. It ranked #436 in the United States in 2025, given to 711 babies, and peaked at #417 in 2023. Common nicknames: Sal, Lem.
How popular is Salem in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Salem mean, and where does it come from?
Salem derives from the Hebrew word "shalom," meaning "peace," and is closely related to the name Jerusalem, which literally translates as "foundation of peace." The name has long served as a place name across the world, most famously as Salem, Massachusetts, site of the 1692 witch trials, and as the capital city of Oregon. Despite its historical association with the witch trials, Salem has grown as a given name in recent years thanks to its serene meaning and crisp, modern sound. It works as both a place name and a peaceful virtue name.
How is Salem used around the world?
Salem is used in 1 languages worldwide.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Salem?
Famous People Named Salem
- Salem al-Fakir — Swedish-Moroccan singer-songwriter
- Salem Al-Dawsari — Saudi Arabian professional footballer
- Salem ilese — American singer-songwriter
Similar Names to Salem
If you like Salem, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Salem
Looking for names that pair well with Salem? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Salem mean?
Salem is a girl name of Hebrew origin meaning "Peace." Salem derives from the Hebrew word "shalom," meaning "peace," and is closely related to the name Jerusalem, which literally translates as "foundation of peace." The name has long served as a place name across the world, most famously as Salem, Massachusetts, site of the 1692 witch trials, and as the capital city of Oregon.
How do you pronounce Salem?
Salem is pronounced SAY-lum. Common variations include Saleem, Shalom, Salema.
Is Salem a girl name?
Yes, Salem is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Sal, Lem.