salaam
UK[səˈlɑːm]US[səˈlɑːm]
n
a respectful greeting in some Islamic cultures, typically involving a low bow with the right hand on the forehead
v
to make a salaam; to greet someone with a salaam
Etymology
the word 'salaam' entered english in the early 17th century from the arabic 'salām', meaning 'peace'. this arabic term itself derives from the semitic root s-l-m, which is central to concepts of peace, safety, and submission. the specific greeting, involving a bow with the hand to the forehead, embodies the literal wish for peace upon the person being greeted. in english, it retains its cultural and religious specificity, referring to this traditional islamic form of salutation.
Analysis
this word is a direct loanword from arabic, adopted into english as a single, unanalyzable unit in its current spelling. it does not contain separable english or classical morphemes.
Examples
he offered a deep salaam to the elder as a sign of respect.
the word "islam" is linguistically connected to "salaam," both sharing the root meaning of peace.
visitors were taught how to properly salaam when entering the mosque.