Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML)

An XML-based security specification developed by the Organization for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards (OASIS) for exchanging authentication (and authorization) information between trusted entities over the Internet.
SOURCE: SP 800-63

A framework for exchanging authentication and authorization information. Security typically involves checking the credentials presented by a party for authentication and authorization. SAML standardizes the representation of these credentials in an XML format called “assertions,” enhancing the interoperability between disparate applications.
SOURCE: SP 800-95

A protocol consisting of XML-based request and response message formats for exchanging security information, expressed in the form of assertions about subjects, between online business partners.
SOURCE: CNSSI-4009