English Dictionary

Definition of “salaam

salaam (səˈlɑːmPronunciation for salaam

Definitions

noun

  1. a Muslim form of salutation consisting of a deep bow with the right palm on the forehead
  2. a salutation signifying peace, used chiefly by Muslims

verb

  1. to make a salaam or salute (someone) with a salaam

Word Origin

C17: from Arabic salām  peace, from the phrase assalām `alaikum peace be to you

Usage examples

  • But when he lifts the phone, the banks fall on their knees and salaam.
    Cleary, Jon, Murder Song (1990)
  • Four months on, the evocative video of Ma tujhe salaam still figures on countdown shows.
    India Today (1998)
  • As salaam alekum," I said in the traditional greeting, then ran out of Arabic and quickly added, "Do you speak English?
    Globe and Mail (2003)
  • The official guarding the entrance falls back with a deferential salaam.
    Times, Sunday Times (2005)
  • -- Aleikum salaam , Gulabuddin stammered, his piercing brown eyes averted to the floor.
    James Fergusson, KANDAHAR COCKNEY: A Tale of Two Worlds (2004)

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