# salaam

/səˈɫɑm/ (US) · /sˈælɑːm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/salaam
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a common greeting in Muslim countries that means 'peace'. It is often used as a respectful way to say hello or goodbye.

For teachers: a traditional greeting in Muslim cultures, literally meaning 'peace'. Often used as a shortened form of the full Arabic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum'.

## Examples

- He entered the room with a polite salaam to everyone.
- The shopkeeper offered a warm salaam as we walked through the door of the market.
- In many cultures across the Middle East and South Asia, the salaam serves not just as a greeting but as a fundamental gesture of mutual respect and peaceful intention.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a standalone exclamation or as a noun referring to the act of greeting.

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