n.
- A ceremonious act of deference or obeisance, especially a low bow performed while placing the right palm on the forehead.
- A respectful ceremonial greeting performed especially in Islamic countries.
To greet with or perform a salaam.
[Arabic salām, peace, salaam, from salima, to be safe.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.