Salem
SAY-luhm
Salem comes from the Hebrew and Arabic shālōm / salām, both meaning “peace.” It is the root of Jerusalem (“foundation of peace”) and appears in biblical texts as an ancient city name.
Salem, Massachusetts, is the name’s most prominent American association, known for the 1692 witch trials. This gives the name both historical weight and a gothic edge.
Salem ranked No. 430 in 2024 with 715 births. It peaked at No. 417 in 2023 with 734 births, near its current all-time high.
What the name Salem means
The black cat named Salem in Sabrina the Teenage Witch added a pop-culture layer. The name appeals to parents drawn to its peaceful meaning despite its dark historical overtones.
Two syllables - SAY-lem - are strong and resonant. The name carries an air of mystery and gravitas that sets it apart from lighter choices.
Parents who select Salem embrace its complexity - peace and history, serenity and edge, all contained in two syllables.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Salem - similar names
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