Find out how popular the first name Salma has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Salma by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Salma is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 100% of people named Salma being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 295 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Salma.

The history of the first name Salma

The name Salma has its roots in the Arabic language and culture. It is derived from the Arabic word "salam," which means peace, safety, or well-being. The name is believed to have originated in the Middle East region during the early Islamic era, around the 7th century AD.

One of the earliest recorded references to the name Salma can be found in the Quran, the central religious text of Islam. In the Quran, Salma is mentioned as the name of one of the wives of the Prophet Muhammad. This association with a prominent figure in Islamic history has contributed to the name's enduring popularity among Muslims.

The name Salma gained widespread recognition and use across the Middle East and North Africa during the medieval Islamic period. Historical records show that several notable figures bore this name, including Salma bint Malik, a 7th-century Arab woman known for her poetry and wisdom.

In the 12th century, Salma al-Mursiya, a renowned Andalusian poet and scholar, achieved fame for her literary works and contributions to the intellectual culture of Muslim Spain. Her legacy has helped to further popularize the name in the region.

Another notable figure with the name Salma was Salma Umm al-Mu'minin, the mother of the fourth Caliph of Islam, Ali ibn Abi Talib. She played a significant role in the early Islamic community and is revered for her piety and devotion.

Throughout history, the name Salma has been carried by various influential individuals across different fields. For example, Salma Hayek, born in 1966, is a renowned Mexican-American actress, producer, and activist who has been recognized for her work in films such as "Frida" and "Desperado."

Salma Mumin, born in 1975, is a British writer and activist known for her work on issues related to race, gender, and social justice. She has authored several books, including "Miss Tylene & Her Muslim Advice Columnist Friends."

Salma Jehamu Hayat, born in 1936, was a Pakistani jurist and the first woman to be appointed as a judge in Pakistan's superior judiciary. She served as a judge on the Lahore High Court and made significant contributions to the legal system and women's rights in Pakistan.

Salma Khadra Jayyusi, born in 1926, was a renowned Palestinian academic, poet, and literary critic. She played a significant role in preserving and promoting Arab literature and culture, and her works have been widely acclaimed and translated into multiple languages.

Salma Hayek, Salma Mumin, Salma Jehamu Hayat, and Salma Khadra Jayyusi are just a few examples of the many remarkable individuals throughout history who have carried the name Salma. This name, with its deep-rooted cultural significance and association with peace and well-being, continues to be popular across various regions and communities.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Salma was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Salma, please contact us.

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