salim

Salim is a masculine given name of Arabic origin, meaning safe, sound, or intact. It is used across the Arab world, South Asia, Turkey, and in diaspora communities. Variants include Selim (Turkish), Selîm, Saleem, and Saleem; the name is also found in different spellings depending on language and region. The female form Salima exists in some cultures.

Etymology and usage: The name derives from the Arabic root S-L-M, associated with safety and peace. In Turkish, the form Selim is common, while in South Asia and parts of the Muslim world, Saleem or Salim are frequently seen. Because of transliteration differences, the same name can appear with several spellings in English. As a surname, Salim is also found in various communities.

Notable people: Historical figures include Selim I (also rendered Salīm), an Ottoman sultan who expanded the empire in the early 16th century. In contemporary times, Salim Ahmed Salim is a Tanzanian diplomat who served as secretary-general of the Organisation of African Unity. The name appears among writers, artists, and public figures in many countries, reflecting its broad geographic usage.

See also: The name has close forms in different languages, such as Selim in Turkish and Saleem in South Asia. It is distinct from similarly named terms like Salem or Salam, though they share the same semantic roots related to safety and peace.