Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Salam \Sa*lam\ (s[.a]*l[aum]m"), n. [Ar. sal[=a]m peace,
   safety.]
   A salutation or compliment of ceremony in the east by word or
   act; an obeisance, performed by bowing very low and placing
   the right palm on the forehead. [Written also {salaam}.]