Salem
Gender: Unisex
Meaning: Peace, safe, complete
Origin: Hebrew/Arabic
Popularity: Ranked #436 in 2025 with 711 babies born.
History: From the Hebrew 'shalom' meaning peace. Jerusalem means city of peace (from Salem). Salem, Massachusetts is famous for the 1692 witch trials. Despite the witch trial association, the name has gained popularity for its peaceful meaning.
Name length: 5 letters
How common is Salem? About 1 in 2,996 babies born in 2025 were named Salem, or roughly 3 per day in the United States.
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Frequently asked about Salem
What does the name Salem mean?
Salem means “Peace, safe, complete” from Hebrew/Arabic roots.
What is the origin of the name Salem?
Salem has Hebrew/Arabic origin. The traditional meaning is “Peace, safe, complete”.
How popular is Salem?
Salem ranked #435 in 2025 — given to 711 babies that year.
When was Salem most popular?
Salem peaked in 2023 with 734 babies registered that year.
Is Salem a boy or girl name?
Salem is used for both boys and girls. In the records, about 42% of Salems are boys and 58% are girls.
Is the name Salem rising or falling in popularity?
Salem has risen 173 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years — from #608 in 2020 to #435 in 2025.
How long has Salem been recorded?
Salem appears in birth records across 75 years — from 1912 through 2025.