Tattoo Symbols

Popular Tattoo Symbols & Their Meanings

Fairy - Fairies to many represent the link with the magical realms. They are imbued with certain powers to make wishes come true and as a result they are one of the most popular individual forms of tattoos demanded by females. Falcon - The falcon has long being admired not just for its beauty but also for its strength. It has also been associated with meta-physical powers by ancient peoples.

Fan - Fans were carried by men and women in the east and were also an expression of individuality because of their ornate and unique designs. Some claim they were used to wave away bad spirits but they are mostly associated with Geisha Girls.

Female Symbol - The symbol for females is a circle with a cross hanging from it. It is associated with the Greek goddess Aphrodite.

Fingerprints - Fingerprints, like hand and foot prints are unique to each individual person. In tattoos they are done to express this individuality as the tattoo can never be copied. Some people get the fingerprints of those who have 'touched them' as a sign of their love.

Firefighter - Firefighter tattoos are usually represented by a fire hydrant, dalmation dog and a firefighter with yellow firefighters hat. It can also feature the 'firefighters cross' which is version of the maltese cross. Firefighters are revered and respected because they risk their own lives to save others.

Fish - Fish tattoos appear in a multitude of different forms and can have as many different meanings associated with them. In some cultures they are associated with fertility but can also be associated with wisdom as in the celtic 'salmon of wisdom'.

Fist - the fist as a tattoo is worn as an atagonistic symbol and has been worn by many groups from black radicals to white supremacists.

Flags - Flags are used to identify with a group or nation. They can be mean also national pride but in its most extreme form of nationalisn an intolerance for other nationalities.

Flames - Fire is all consuming and can mean purification and renewal in may beliefs. They are a popular form of tattoo in the new school tradition and are tattooed on ankles, forearms or even surrounding the sacred heart symbol.

Fleur de Lis - This symbol is associated with the French monarchy and also with Joan of Arc. As such it represents liberty.

Flowers - Flowers can cover the whole spectrum of individual species and are a hugely popular form of tattoos. All flowers have been admired for their beauty and can have many meanings depending on the variety.

Frog - Frog tattoos are quite a popular form of tattoo even though there are many different varieties and meanings attached to them. Its choice as a tattoo comes down aesthetic rather than symbolic reasons. This is partly due to its bright colors which are highly noticelable. Frogs have always been associated with the magical realm popularised by the Princess kissing a frog and turning him into a Prince.

Ganesh - Hindu God depicted as a person with an elephants head. Ganesh is imbued with many different meanings from protection to righteousness. Tattoos of Ganesh can be very detailed and are usually placed on the back.

Gargoyles - Gargoyles are architectural features found on gothic style buildings. They were originally intended as spouts for run off of rain from roofs. They are usually depicted as scary looking creatures which scare away evil spirits.

Gay Love Symbol - This is the symbol for males interlinked and is popular amongst gay wishing to express their love for other men.

Gecko - A lizard whose tail grows back if pulled off. For this reason they symbolize regrowth and luck.

Geisha - Geishas or 'Art Girls' are women who were trained to entertain men. Much to popular misconceptions they are not women of ill repute. They are usually dressed immaculately and wear heavy white make up. As tattoos they are depicted holding a fan and are popular in Japanese forms of tattoos.

Gnome - Gnomes were originally a middle eastern mythical creature but have become popular in nordic and celtic mythology. They are usually depicted as dwarf like men with pointy red hats sheltering under brightly colored toadstools.

Goblins - The goblin is well known in European folklore and is a perceived as being a bad tempered and ugly little creature, particularly the hob goblin. They differ from gnomes in that they are usually troublemakers.

Grapes - Grapes are associated with Dionysus the Greek god of wine. They are usually work as an arm band or creeping up the arm or leg.

Graffiti - Graffiti is considered by some to be modern art and by others to be defacing property. In ways it mirrors the way people view tattoos which can be either positive or negative. What is important that graffiti is an expression which is probably the reason for its rise.

Greek-Russian Orthodox Cross - This differs from the standard Christian cross in that it has a smaller bar above the main bar, possibly representing the inscription and a smaller diagonol bar possibly used as a footrest which may have become dislodged.

Griffin - A mythical beast which is a cross between the eagle and lion. Its head is an eagle and lower body that of a lion. In the middle east it was associated with a religion called zorastrianism but it was also used by chrisitians to symbolize the dual nature of Christ.

Grim Reaper - Is an impending figure depicted as a hooded skeleton carrying a scythe. The scythe is used to 'harvest' human souls.

Guevara, Che - Although Che Guevara was a symbol of violent struggle and communism he has ironically become a popular symbol in societies were capitalisn is the order of the day. Depicted with a black beret with the star it has become an iconic symbol and a popular form of tattoo.

Gun - Guns are a popular form of tattoo amongst those who have served time in prison for violent crimes involving guns. But they have been adopted by neo traditionalists in the American school of tattoos. They can be worn by males and females and are usually placed on the chest or abdomen of either sex.

Halo - Is a symbol of enlightened or saintly beings depicted as a ring of light of the person's head or even surrounding the entire person. As tattoos the halo can adorn any symbol such as a crown or sacred heart but it also used on top of a portrait of a person or pet that has deceased thus suggesting that they are still with them in spirit.

Hammer and Sickle - A symbol of Russian communists. It can be depicted as black work or against the backdrop of a red flag. Like the symbol of Che Guevara it has been adopted by westerners with no interest in communist ideology although many American tattoo artists will refuse to tattoo the Hammer and Sickle for patriotic reasons.

Han - Otherwise known as the hand chop. It is a signature seal carved onto a block of wood serving as a stamp or seal. It is a popular form of tattoo in the Japanese tradition.

Harley Davidson - The Harley Davidson motorcycle has become an icon of American freedom. It is a a hugely popular form of tattoo not just amongst bikers but Harley riders the world over. It can be depicted as the Harley Davidson logo on its own or complete with an American Eagle and flag in the background.

Harp - Harps are usually associated with the Irish. Before the changover to EU currency it was displayed on all Irish coins and is used by the Irish Governement as an official seal. It is a common tattoo amongst those of Irish extraction as a symbol or resistance and national pride.

Harpy - In Greek mythology these were evil spirits depicted as winged creatures with sharp claws who have the body of birds and heads of women. They are similar to succubi in that they take the souls or spirits of men.

Heart - As a tattoo it is associated with the bio-mechanical form of tattoos. It is usually placed in the actual spot where the real heart would be as if being looked at through an x-ray. It is also popular amongst people who have been through heart operations to remind them of their successful heart surgery and recovery.

Heart Symbol - Possible one of the most popular form of tattoos. The symbol of the heart is etched deeply in the human psyche across nearly all cultures. It can appear in many different forms such as the Sacred Heart or the Pierced Heart. In old school tattoos it is sometimes shown with a banner going across with the persons name written on it. In the new school tradition of tattooing it can be represented with a crown above it or surrounded by flames.

Heart with Dagger - This is an old school form of tattoo common amongst servicemen but has become popular once again. It can symbolize hurt in love and also jealousy.

Heart with Flames - This is a form of tattoo that can express passion for a particular person. Fire has long been associated with lust and passion and the heart is a symbol of love.

Heart with Mom Banner - This is the tattoo that comes to peoples minds when they think of the strereotypical tattoo. Even though it is seen as a cliche many people still get it. It has come full circle and takes it place amongst daggers and skulls as the quintessential western tattoos.

Hei Tiki - This is a symbol of protection amongst the Maori tribes of New Zealand or Aotearoa (Land of the Long White Cloud). It is depicted as an unborn fetus with head tilted to one side. It is used as a form of protection by expecting maori women.

Hell's Angels - A notorious motorcycle gang at one time originating in the United States. They are usually depicted wearing world war two clothing and helmets and their logo is the skull with horns.

Hobbits - Popular tattoos in the fantasy tattoo tradition. They are small human-like beings that live in 'Middle Earth' from the epic tale 'The Lord of the Rings' created by J.R..R Tolkien.

Homeward Bound - A popular maritime tattoo in the old school tradition. It is usually depicted as a clipper ship with full sails with a banner which displays 'homeward bound' although sometimes it can depict an anchor.

Horse - Horses can mean many different things such as strenght and also nobility. In history people mounted on horses are seen as being powerful.

Horseshoe - This is a well known symbol of good luck and has been adopted by the neo traditional school of tattoos. The idea was that the horseshoe pointing upwards protected a persons house and kept all the good luck in. They are popular amongst females as chest pieces.

Horus - An Egyptian symbol depicted as a falcon headed god. In the myth Horus' eye was ripped out but was reconstructed.

Hula Girl - A once popular form of tattoos amongst sailors. It usually meant that the sailor had been to Hawaii. The Hula Girl is depicted as a pin up style girl wearing the traditional Hawaiian hula skirt and garland.

Icarus - Icarus was a Greek god who flew too close to the sun he had wax wings which melted causing him to fall into the sea and drown. He is seen to represent the impetuous and uncontrolled nature of youth and as such is an appropriate symbol for a tattoo.

Iguana - Iguanas are brightlt colored lizards and as a result look great as tattoos. They can be tattooed to full size on the back or smaller on the calf of a leg or shoulder. Iguanas were considered to be sacred animals by the Mayan.

Illuminati - The illuminati were a secret organisation of 'adepts' or enlightened ones with extraordinary power. There is many conspiracies surrounding them and many claim that the American dollar bills contain illuninati symbolism which is the eye in the triangle or 'all-seeing eye'. In tattoos there are many variations of this symbol as there are many different reasons for getting it.

Infinity - The infinity symbol looks like a number eight lying on its side as is an ancient arabic symbol. Many people get this as a tattoo to represent the eternal nature of the soul.

In Memoriam - These are constant reminders of a deceased person that are popular tattoos for those who want to remember loved ones who have passed. They are usually tattooed with a portrait of the person who has passed.

Isis - Is an ancient Egyptian goddess and a popular choice for a tattoo. She is generally shown holding a staff to represent her control.

Jackal - The jackal is associated with death as it is known to feed on corpses at night time in particular. In many cultures it has very negative associations even though it is a popular choice of tattoo.

Jaguar - Jaguars have long been associated with otherwordly powers by ancient cultures in central America. The Americans Indians regarded them as 'power animals' or having shamanistic qualities.

Japanese Dragon - Dragons in Eastern cultures have completely different meanings to those in the West. They are thought to embody the Yin Yang energy and possess wisdom. As tattoos they can be depicted as passive and benevolent or aggressive showing claws and sharp teeth. There are so many variations of the Japanese Dragon as a style of tattoo and they can be placed in most places but mostly on the back, upper arm, forearm and chest.

Jesus - Jesus as founder of Christianity is a popular choice of tattoo for those who want to express their devotion. There are many depictions of Jesus ranging from the image of Jesus wearing a crown of thorns or on a cross which a popular prison and gang tattoos. Then there is the brightly colored new school variety of tattoo that depicts Jesus as an icon of popular culture.

Joker - The Joker is associated with playing cards and is related to 'The Fool' in tarot cards. As a playing card they usually have special powers and can be used in play or not as in 'Jokers wild'. Even though the Joker is seen as someone foolish they are also quite intelligent. As a tattoo it can be done for these reasons and others.

Kali - Kali is an Indian god of destruction. Shown with four arms and a sword and a severed head. As a tattoo it can be done to represent the aggressive nature of the female aspect.

Kanji - Kanjis are a form of Japanese and Chinese writing. There are four main styles of kanji. Read more about Kanji Tattoos.

King of Hearts - The King of Hearts is the highest card in a 52 card deck. As a tattoo it can be done to express good luck but can also be associated with love. It is a common choice of tattoo in the new school tradition.

Kintaro - Kintaro is a legendary Japanese hero imbued with great strength. Often Kintaro is seen wrestling with a Koi or Japanese Carp. In Japanese tattoos Kintaro is a popular tattoo as it depicts the warrior aspect.

Knotwork - Knotwork or Celtic Knotwork was developed by the Celtic people of Ireland and Northern Europe. It is to be seen in many ancient Irish manuscripts such as the Book of Kells, on display in Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland. Symbolically it can represent the eternal and intertwined nature of the human soul. It is a popular form of tattoo especially as an armband. Read more about Celtic Tattoos.

Koi - Also known as Japanese Carp is a bright golden, orange and white fish. In Japanese tattooing in is one of the most discernible and popular styles. It has many meanings as is it renowned for its ability to climb waterfalls and as such symbolizes courage over adversity.

Kokopelli - This symbol is derived from ancient Indian artwork. It is depicted as a male crouched over playing a flute. It is thought that he is the bringer of good news and also of fertility because of his large genitalia in some drawings.

Krishna - A Hindi deity thought to be the reincarnation of Vishni. He is a popular choice of tattoo as he represents divine love for all things.

KKK - Short for Klu Klux Klan a white supremacist organization formed in the US after the Civil War. They are notorious for their white robes, pointy hats and cross burning antics on the property of black families. They were at their height in the late sixties but seem to on the rise again.

Lady Luck - Most commonly associated with gamling because of the depiction of a scantily clad lady with dice, cards and sometimes a horse-shoe. Lady Luck is a common tattoo in the new school tradition.

Lakshmi - In the Hindu belief Lakshmi is the wife of Vishnu and is depicted as a compassionate mother. She is usually shown with four arms of which the top two hold a lotus flower and also standing on a lotus. The lotus flower is recognised as the embodiment of spiritual perfection.

Leprechaun - Leprechauns are 'the little people' of Ireland and have powers to grant wishes and possess a 'pot 'o gold'. They are feisty and do not hand over their wishes or gold too easy. Leprachauns as tattoos are popular particularly with Irish Americans and are not really requested by natives of Ireland as they are seen to be 'plastic' or not really authentically Irish.

Lesbian Love - This is two female symbols interlocked. The symbol for female is a circle with and cross pointing downwards.

Lighthouse - A welcome sight for seafarers and has come to mean safety and protection. The light in the lighthouse can also mean guidance giving direction to those off course.

Lily - Lillies are known for purity and chastity and are also associated with death being a common flower at funerals.

Lion - Lions are 'king of the jungle' and project strength. They are sometimes depicted in their natural state or in emblems and national motifs particularly English.

Lion with Sword - This is a middle eastern symbol for royalty and power and is a popular tattoo choice.

Lizard - Lizards are popular tattoo choices in the Hawaiian and Polynesian tradition. They can be depicted like the gecko or as more in a tribal style of tattoo.

Lotus - Lotus flowers alongside roses are probably the flower with the most meaning associated with it. In many belief systems they express spiritual purity mainly because they are so beautiful and can grown in the murkiest of water. There are many different varieties of lotus flowers and they are usually depicted in Buddhist or Hindu style tattoos.

Love and Hate - These are usually spelt out on the tops of each finger so that they are visible when a fist is made. As tattoos they are usually associated with 'common types' and criminals.

More Tattoo Symbols Below...

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