Zaid Alsalami, Shaykh Dr Zaid Alsalami is an Iraqi born scholar, raised in Australia. He obtained a BA from Al-Mustafa University, Qom, and an MA from the Islamic College in London. He also obtained a PhD from... Answered 3 years ago

Bismihi ta'ala

The literal meaning for the Arabic word nikah depends on how it is used in a sentence:

1. If it says nikah between a female and a male, it refers to a marriage contract.

2. If it says man did nikah with his wife, (nakaha), it means sexual intercourse. 

The technical meaning of nikah:

An Islamic contract between a female and a male, for the purpose of being together, intimacy, and forming a family. Of course, along with all the other conditions. 

Also see:

http://www.sheikh-alsalami.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/marriage-guidebook.pdf

Wassalam