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Tattoo Symbols Popular Tattoo Symbols & Their Meanings Are you looking for a particular style of tattoo? Below you will find information related to different tattoo symbols and motifs. This list is being added to constantly so please check back if the type of tattoo symbol you are looking for is not here. Mack Trucks - Mack Trucks are to truckers what Harley Davidson's are to bikers. Unlike Harleys they are usually tattooed in their entirety rather than just the logo showing the truck as big and powerful shined to perfection. Madonna - This is an extremely popular tattoo as it is as a religous icon. Madonna is usually depicted with flowing white or blue robes, eyes turned downward in a pious, reflective manner. The reasons for getting Madonna tattooed are many and varied and not always for religious reasons. Madonna has long being a subject for tattoos and is just as popular as ever. Madonna and Child - This is a more traditional variation on the madonna theme, In this depiction Mary, Mother of God is seen holding baby Jesus. Male Symbol - This is depicted as a circle with a cross pointing upwards. Maltese Cross - This cross originated in the Malta Supreme Military Hospital. It is an eight pointed cross with each point symbolizing the qualities of a knight. The cross is also used by the Order of Knights Templars. Mandala - A mandala literally means circle in Sanskrit. It is a common symbol in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. It can take on myriad forms and variations and is a symbol of contemplation. Man's Ruin - Man's ruin is depicted as a lady sitting in a glass with cards in the backdround, money and dice. It is these four things, alcohol, loose women, money and gambling that can lead to man's ruin. It has always been a popular tattoo choice and because of its classic appearance shows no sign of ever waning in popularity. Marijuana - Also known as Mary Jane, weed, or grass is an instantly recognised symbol because of its distinctive appearance. Its use is generally restricted in most countries but that does not stop people from getting it as a tattoo to show that they are a user. Measure of Man - This is a well known painting by Leonardo De Vinci. It is a depiction of a nude man in a large circle and rectangle showing the reach of outstretched arms and legs in two different positions. It was used in a space probe sent out years ago so that if extra terrestials discovered it would understand the basic physical structure on mankind. Medicine Shield - This is a Native American shield which is circular in shape with feathers attached and is used for protection. Medusa - Medusa is depicted as a lady with piercing eyes and snakes for hair. In myths she could turn a man to stone with one look. She is a character that strikes fear into many. Mermaids - The mermaid is half fish and half female. In mythology the mermaid would eith lure men to their death by drowning or would conversely rescue men from the same fate. As tattoos they can be symbols of temptation or depicted almost as pin up girls. Mickey Mouse - This is the quintessential Disney character and as such a popular tattoo choice for those who want to retain links to happy childhood memories. Moai - These are the giant mysterious stone carvings on the Pacific Island of Easter Island. They are giant heads and upper bodies sticking out of the ground which still baffle people. Moon - This is our closest heavenly neighbor and is often associated with the feminine aspect or nature. It can symbolize change and it is responsible for the movement of the tides and also linked to the female monthly cycle. It can take on many forms such as the crescent moon, harvest moon, killing moon or blue moon with individual meanings associated with each. Morning Star - This is a star which is associated with the darker side of nature and is also known as 'Satan's Star' because of its ability to evoke spirits. Motorcycles - The image of the motorcycle will probably never lose its appeal. Motorcycles tattoos once the preserve of biker gangs now seem to be requested by those not necessarily considered 'bikers'. As tattoos there are many different varieties from the 'Hot Rod' with a scantily clad girl on top, to the Harley Davidson ridden by a skeleton even Lambretta scooters and every other type of bike in between. Musical Notes - These can take on any variation of a musical note. As tattoos they are usually done by people who are musicians or who have a deep love of music. Nautical Star - The nautical star is a common style of tattoo even though its meanings and origins are unclear. It is a five pointed star with one half of each point in shade. It can mean a 'lucky return'. Nazi Symbol - The Nazi symbol is depicted as the outstreched wings of an eagle holding a wreath with the swastika inside. It is a very striking image which is only really used by groups aligned with neo nazi links. Niho Mano - This is a Hawaiian symbol shown as opposing lines of pyramids that takes on the appearance of teeth of a shark. It is traditionally worn by males as an armband. Nuclear Radiation - This is an internationally recognised symbol warning of the danger of nuclear radioactivity. Its use of a tattoo can mean serve as a 'warning' to others not to get to close. Octopus - This is an eight legged sea creature which is the subject of many myths and sea tales. The octopus can be depicted as fearful or as a passive almost feminine creature. As such it is more common for women than men to get tattooed with an octopus. Om - The Om symbol is a depiction of the primeval sound believed by Hindus to be the 'breath of God'. It is a very common symbol as a tattoo. Omega - This is the last symbol in the Greek alphabet but can also mean 'the end of all things'. One Percent (1%) - This came from a quote from the American Motorcycle Association which claimed that only 1% of its members were gang members or outlaws. Some biker gang members proudly wear this as a mark of honour. Read more. Oni - This is a horned devil in Japanese tradition and a popular style of tattoo. Orchid - Orchids is a popular choice of floral tattoo mainly because of its beauty and its rich associations. Osiris - King of ancient Egypt and often depicted as a mummy holding a staff. He was the god of fertility but also linked with the afterlife. Owl - Owls are a popular choice of bird tattoo because of their meaning. Owls are striking birds with hypnotic eyes and are known for their wisdom. Padlock - This is a perennial style of tattoo that has never really faded. It is usually depicted with hearts and is meant to suggest that only one person can unlock the wearers heart or there is only one true love. Pah Kwa - This is an ancient Chinese symbol said to ward off evil. It is depicted as a Yin Yang symbol surrounded by eight trigrams from the I Ching. Panther - Panthers are fierce creatures and as such are worn by people who like to portray an image of strength and courage. They have also been adopted by the 'Black Panthers' a group of black radicals in the sixties. As tattoos they were popular years ago but seem to be back in. Parrot - Parrots have always held a special place with people because of their bright colors, intelligence and ability to speak in some cases. As tattoos they have always been popular because of their vivid colors. Pegasus - This is a legendary Greek creature shown as a white horse with wings. It has many associations with agility and the spirit world. Pentagram - This is a five pointed star which has connections with magick and witchcraft. It is used as a form of protection by those who practice the craft and in its inverted form is a symbol of evil. Phoenix - A mythological bird that is rich in meaning known in quite a few different cultures. It is most known for its ability to rise from the ashes and is a symbol of death and rebirth into immortality. Pierced Heart - A quintessential symbol of being in love. Shot from the arrow of Cupid it can suggest penetration and physical love too. Pink Triangle - This is the symbol of the gay liberation movment. It was reappropriated by gay men from nazi Germany. Pirate Ship - This is a ship which depicts the black flag showing skull and crossbones. It is a common tattoo in the old and new school varieties because of its bold outlines. Playboy Bunny - The well known logo of Playboy magazine has been adopted by many who have probably never even read Playboy. It symbolizes the eroticism. Popeye - Popeye is the famous sailor cartoon character which has been around since the late 1920's. Popeye has come be a popular tattoo ever since because of his associate with stregth, fighting and saving Olive Oyl. Praying Hands - This is a well known image in Christianity as it associates with communication with God. It has long been a common tattoo amongst inmates in prison especially Mexican gangs. Read more. Pyramids - One of the wonders of the world build by the ancient Egyptians. They have become popular as tattoos for their link with ancient wisdom and connection with the past. Queen - Not as popular a tattoo symbol as the king in a suit of cards. Although can represent the feminine energy but sometimes associated with gay men as in 'queens'. Quetzalcoatl - This is an ancient Mexican creature depicted as a serpent covered in feathers. Like the phoenix it is associated with death and rebirth. It is not really that well known outside of the region and is mostly requested as a tattoo by those with Mexican heritage. Ra - An ancient Egyptian god associated with the sun and sky. Ra is depicted with the head of a falcon. Rabbit - Rabbits have many meanings from fertility to renewal. In Chinese astrology people born in The Year of the Rabbit are good communcators and ambitous. Rainbow Flag - A popular symbol for those wishing to express their homosexuality. Originally created in San Francisco in the lates 70's it has come to be internationally recognised for 'Gay Pride' everywhere. Reverse Swastika - This is the mirror image of the symbol used by the nazis. It is an ancient Hindu symbol and has the opposite meaning to that which it is most associated. RIP - Rest in Peace is a an epitaph on a grave. As a tattoo it is quite common either as a memory of a deceased person or in the fantasy style of tattoo art depicting grisly scenes. Rock of Ages - This symbolizes a woman clinging to a cross or headstone with a banner below with the inscription 'Rock of Ages'. She can either be seen on a rocky outcrop or amongst flowers as is meant to a scene of a shipwreck. As such is a common tattoo amongst sailors and also as a religious tattoo. Rooster - Roosters have many associations in Chinese astrology and in Western beliefs. For instance sailor used to get tattoos of roosters as they were known to not be able to swim so would not want to get back to the relative safety of dry ground. They have also been known to be proud and fighting birds. In Chinese they are considered to be intellectual. While Buddhists associate them with passion. Rose - Roses are probably the quintessential flower in the West and a VERY popular form of tattoo. The rose is rich with meaning and symbolism. Read more about Rose Tattoos. Runes - These are an ancient alphabet of the Nordic race. Each astrological sign corresponds to a runic symbol. Because of the complexity and individual interpretaion of each rune no one meaning can be attached to runes. Some of the runic symbols have be taken by those with affiliations to White Nationalism. Sacred Heart - The Sacred Heart is one of the most popular forms of tattoos. It is representative of Jesus' heart and his divine love for all things. There are many variations of this symbol with some depicting the flames of passion and others still being depicted realistically almost like a real heart. Sailors - Once common tattoos amongst Navy men. Usually depicted wearing the white sailor uniform and cap. Sailor Girl - Classic pin up style tattoo. Wearing a sailors uniform but with a low cut showing an ample bosom. Sailor's Grave - Old school tattoo done to remember fellow Navy men lost in battle at sea. It is depicted as an anchor or 'lifesaver' being held by an American Bald Eagle with a banner inscribed 'Sailor's Grave'. Samurai - Ancient Japanese warriors renowned for their discipline and swordsmanship. They were also noted for their honor choosing to commit suicide instead of submitting. It is a popular form of tattoo in the Japanese tradition and can be part of a full 'suit' covering the entire body depicting war scenes. Scorpion - The scorpion is a deadly creature and can kill a human being very quicky. It is associated with revenge because of its nature. Even still it is a very popular form of tattoo even amongst those not born under its astrological sign. Sea Horse - The Sea Horse is a very unusual looking sea creature that has many associations. As a tattoo it can mean numerous things from the strength of the horse and ruler of the sea. Semper Fidelis - This is popular amongst US Marines for its meaning 'Always Faithful'. It can used alone or alongside an anchor or bulldog as a US Marine Corp tattoo. Shamrock - This small clover like plant is associated with the cletic people of Ireland where it was believed to be a sacred plant. St Patrick adopted to denote the 'Holy Trinity' of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. As a tattoo it has been appropriated by far right groups even though it is still a popular tattoo amongst those recognising their Irish heritage. Shiva - A Hindu god depicted with four arms outstretched and one leg raised symbolizing the 'cosmic 'dance'. He is usually surrounded by flames and is the 'giver of life'. Sickle - Associated with either communism or death as in the 'Grim Reaper' giving it a meaning of death and its inevitable rebirth. Skull - The skull is a recurrent theme in tattoos mainly because of its unique appearance. Skulls as tattoos can take many variations and as many meanings. They can be grisly with worms boring through the skull or can have a more new school appearance with a bold bright appearance with a green 'X' in place of a socket and a dagger going through it. Snake - Snakes are a recurring form of tattoo in may different styles from modern American tattoos to Chinese style tattoos. It is associated with renewal because the snakes ability to shed its skin. The snake was also associated with knowledge and temptation in the Christian tradition. There are many different styles of snake and can be depicted on their own, coiled around a sword or dagger (which is a medical symbol) or emerging from a skull. Spider - Spiders can be deadly insects such as the black widow spider or the fearsome but generally harmless tarantula. Spiders overall are a common from of tattoo. Spider Web - This is a tattoo that can symbolize a prison term. They are tattooed on the elbows and can also mean that the person sporting it has killed someone. They are also worn by skinheads are can look intimidating to most people. Spirals - This is a cletic symbol to be found on the ancient burial tombs of the celts in Ireland. They are thought to represent the three realms in the celtic belief system of the underworld, overworld and the world. Star - The star is a popular form of tattoo and can take on many different forms such as shooting star tattoos.They can also have many different meanings associated with them. Read more about Shooting Star Tattoos. Statue of Liberty - The most famous statue which stands for liberty, freedom and independence to all that follow the 'American Way'. It has become a popular form of tattoo particularly in the aftermath of 9/11. The Statue of Liberty was one of things many immigrants would have seen on arrival in the 'land of oppotunity and as such means new beginnings. Sun - The sun is a powerful symbol common amongst all cultures. It is rich in meaning and symbolism and is most commonly acknowledged as the 'giver of life' without which all things would perish. As a tattoo it can be depicted in many different forms from the sun with flames around it to a tribal style of Haida depiction with human-like face. Sun and Moon - This image is steeped in meaning. It can mean the interplay of opposites as in male and female, hot and cold, Yin and Yang. Both the sun and moon nourish us in different ways. Sunflowers - Sunflowers are a common tattoo because of their striking appearance and bright yellow color. Swallow - Swallows have always been a favorite tattoo amongst sailors because of their association with good luck and homecoming. They have more recently been adopted by the new school tattoo style and can be as popular on females as on males. Swastika - Originally an ancient symbol that was a symbol of creation but now internationally recognised for its nazi associations. Because of its negative associations not many people get it tattooed unless belonging to a far right group or as a complex piece where its obvious power is played down. Sword - The sword has many connotations such as justice, virtue but also danger. They have magical powers and often appear in myth and legends. As a tattoo they have been popular for many years. Teardop - These are a common prison style tattoo denoting 'served time' or the fact that the wearer may have killed a person. Three Dots - This form of tattoo is mostly associated with gang membership and is done on the hand between the forefinger and thumb. Triple Seven - Usually depicted as a gaming machine where it symbolizes lucky fortune. Thunderbird - A mythical bird in the Native American tradition renowned for its power because of its ability to create thunder from its wings. Its most common appearance is with outstretched wings or in a Haida style from the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Tiger - Tigers are a common style of tattoo for many reasons. It is renowned for both its beauty and strength. Because of the distinctive coloring of a tiger it makes for a very good tattoo. It can be done in many styles but by far the most common depiction is the Chinese style of tiger which it was believed to be the opposite of the dragon and often appears alongside it. Tiki - Tikis originate from Maori culture in New Zealand. They are depicted like statues carved in wooden blocks not dissimilar to Native American Totems. Tomahawk - A weapon of the Native Americans used in battle and renowned for scalping the white invaders. It is a popular tattoo symbol for those interested in Native American history and culture. Totem Pole - A carved block of wood representing ties to a Native Americans 'power animals' or spirit guides. They can be many variations of animals such as bird, bear, coyote. They can also tell a story as well as be a protective symbol. Many males get totems tattooed on their arms even though they are not natives. Toucan - Toucans are tropical birs from Central and South America recognizable from their almost cartoon-like appearance of large beak and vivid colors. Treble Clef - A musical note also known as 'G Clef' because the swirly part wraps around the line that indicates the note G on the staff. It is a common tattoo amongst those with musical talents. Tribal - Tribal tattoos are still hugely popular and have evolved into a style called neo-tribal which takes elements from other cultures such as those of the Pacific Islands. Read more about Tribal Tattoos. Triskelion - This is an ancient symbol common to Greek and Celtic cultures. It literally means 'three legged' in Greek. It has been found on Greek shields and also found on Irish burial tombs. It was later adopted by the early Christian church to represent the Holy Trinity. Turtle - Turtles are renowned for their long life and slow and steady pace. They can also mean protection as the turtle uses his hard shell. Unicorn - A mythological creature which looks like a horse with a horn coming out of its forehead. It is often associated with fables and fairy tales because of its enchanting appearance. As a tattoo it is hugely popular particularly amongst females. United States Air Force (USAF) - This is common tattoo amongst US servicemen. It is depicted as an American Bald Eagle (sometimes with an American flag as a backdrop) holding a propeller in its talons and banner inscribed with USAF. United States Army - The US Army is the largest component of the American Military machine. It is only natural that such a large organization would develop its own style of tattoo. But the mainstay of army tattoos seems to be the American Bald Eagle, the American Flag, canons and other military weapons. The most popular tattoo worm by US soldiers is similar to that of the USAF with Bald Eagle, Flag and banner inscribed USA. United State Marine Corp - The Marines military regalia always seems to feature the Eagle, globe, anchor and small banner held by the Eagle proclaiming 'Semper Fidelis' United States Navy (USN) The US Navy are the organisation most associated with 'sailor' style tattoos that have become so prevalent and instantly recognizable. They are similar to USAF and US Army in that they feature an Eagle carrying the banner with USN with an anchor below. The anchor is the symbol most associated with Navel men. Vampires - Vampires appear to be quite common as tattoos maybe perhaps because they have long held a fascination for most people. Tradition has that the vampire needed to suck the blood of a virgin in order to survive. Many people find the idea of blood and its consumption erotic and blood cults have been around for hundreds of years celebrating the 'lust for blood'. Vikings - Vikings came from the Nordic countries of Norway, Sweden and Denmark mainly. They are renowned for the fierce fighting abilities but were also plunderers and pillagers. As a result there appearance would have struck fear into many. They are usually pictured as having long beards, pony tails, wearing round helmets with horns and carrying swords. The image of a viking is quite prevalent as tattoo art. Virgin Mary - The Virgin Mary is most associated with Catholicism. As religious art she is most expressed as being pure and a compassionate mother. She is usually depicted wearing flowing white or blue robes praying with a reflective or sad expression. As a tattoo her depiction has always been popular from old school depictions to the more boldly colored and almost three dimensional quality of new school tattoos. Vishnu - Hindu god and one of the three supreme beings which also include Brahma and Shiva. He is usually depicted as having four arms one of which carries a trident and the other carrying a drum. The other two hands display some kind of hand gestures (mudras) conveying some kind of meaning. Whale - Although as a tattoo the whale is not nearly as popular as the dolphin but symbolically it is no less interesting. Whales have also been associated with myths and legends from 'Jonah and the Whale' to myths of killer whales. They are also connected with the world of the unconscious mainly because they live in the deepest oceans which were associated with unconscious emotions and imagery. The sound of whales can be a beautiful and haunting experience and there is no doubt of mankinds fascination with these majestic creatures. Wheel Cross - This cross is similar to the celtic cross and its actual name is Odin's Cross. It was originally a pagan symbol but has since been appropriated by the Chrisitian church. Like the Celtic Cross it has been adopted by White Supremacists groups. It is a simple designs shown as a circle with a cross inside. Witch - Witches have been around for milennia as practitioners of Wicca or witchcraft. The stereotypical image of a witch is an old lady astride a broom with a pointy hat and even pointier nose! Although wicca still survives to this day most modern day witches would balk at this depiction. Wolf - Wolves are a popular image in tattoo art. They are laden with symbolism and a recurring theme in many myths and fables. They are renowned for being pack hunters and have be known to adopt abandoned children. They are also linked with ancient mythology such as that of the Nordic and Native American traditions. XXX - This is a symbol that has double meanings. It was originally used to denote bottles containing alcohol but has come to be more associated with pornography or 'X' rated material for adults only. 'X' can also mean "straight edge". Usually either just an 'X' or two small 'x' on either side of a large 'X' 'xXx'. Meaning that the person has made the choice to not take in any drugs or alcohol into their bodies. Often found on the wrists, hands or back of the neck. Yin-Yang - Ancient Chinese symbol which represents the opposites contained in everything such as male/female, light/dark, good/bad. In each is contained the seed of the other and one cannot exist without the other. Zodiac - Zodiac symbols developed from the ancient art of astrology and are very popular as tattoos.They correspond to the twelve months of the year which are:
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