In this post, we will discuss about some of the most popular tattoo designs and their meanings. Some of these tattoos, unfortunately, are banned in work environments. Thus, before getting one, you should make sure that your boss would not mind it. Or ensure that it is found somewhere in your body that is inconspicuous.
The story behind the design is something that leaves people wondering why you are getting that image or symbol. Although the tattoos designs we will mention in this post are cool, replicating them might not be a good idea. Instead, make sure that yours is more personal to make it unique, so it will indicate that it is yours and not copied.
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Most Popular Tattoo Designs And Meanings
1. Anchor
It is one of the oldest tattoo designs. The first images were seen in the early days of Christianity. At that time, Christians were persecuted and killed for believing the existence of Jesus Christ.
Anchor is a Christian symbol, which is used to represent St. Clement of Rome. He was executed at sea and tied to an anchor.
Some scholars also said that this symbol represents a connection between feminine and masculine powers. But anchor tattoo can have different meanings, depending on the wearer. However, the most popular meanings will include loyalty, honor, stability, hope, salvation and enlightenment. All of these pertain to anchor’s ability to hold the ship in rough seas. It is also the last refuge of most sailors.
Anchor tattoo design can have different variations. You can go for navy anchor, anchor with rope, tribal anchor, and so on and so forth.
2. Angel
It is considered as a main stream tattoo design. You can find it almost everywhere. It is worn by men and women in different variations.
Most wearers of angel tattoo have it in their skin because it represents something significant in their lives. It does not matter whether you are a Christian or not, angel tattoos are highly-sought designs all over the world.
The most popular meaning of angel is “protection.” Angels watch over us and protect us against evil. Some wearers have fallen angels as a symbol of their sadness, pain or suffering.
In addition to protection, pain, suffering and sadness, angel tattoo can also be a symbol of hope, faith, strength, freedom, purity and love, among other meanings.
3. Butterfly
Butterfly is more common in women. It is usually combined with a flower tattoo design, like roses, sunflowers and lilies. Apart from its shape and hue, butterfly is common because it can be placed anywhere in your body.
If it is worn by a woman, it usually symbolizes free spirit. A woman is just like a butterfly that grows from egg to larva to pupa to adult. A woman blossoms from being a girl to a woman. It essentially focuses on the awesome power of being a woman.
Butterfly can be inked on any part of your body. When it is seen on shoulder blade, the tattoo design may represent that the wearer is a dreamer. If it is on the chest, it may signify unconditional love. Lower back may mean stability or prosperity.
But butterfly tattoos can have different meanings, depending on the wearer.
4. Chain
It is not a mainstream tattoo but chain is still one of the most favorite tattoo designs for men and women. It is usually found around the neck and ankles. You can add an emblem to the chain, like a cross.
The real meaning of chain tattoo will depend on the wearer. But, generally, it means freedom when the chain is broken. On the other hand, if it is intact, it symbolizes slavery. However, it does not mean that you are in prison. It could be a slavery of your own self, beliefs or anything that you can think of.
Other meanings will include protection, authority, strength, and power. Since there is a wide array of different meanings with this design, the meaning behind your chain tattoo will be up to you.
5. Cross
A cross tattoo design is not always connected to a religion, even though this symbol is observed in Christianity. There are several meanings of this tattoo design. Some would have it to remember a beloved person. Tattoo artists would combine a cross tattoo design with another design to make it more beautiful and attractive.
Cross could mean sacrifice, love or salvation. Two of the most popular cross tattoo designs are Celtic and tribal crosses. Some wearers do not want to have an ordinary tattoo. Instead, they will get a Gothic style tattoo, which is getting popular. To get a Gothic cross tattoo, designers will add dragons and snakes to an ordinary cross. Gothic cross design would usually mean anger and pain.
6. Dove
The design can be simple or complex, depending on the wearer’s choice. Dove symbolizes peace and love. It is an iconic symbol about faith and devotion. This tattoo design could also mean harmony and unity, as well as faith and hope.
The dove design evokes a certain sense of tranquility. It is usually associated with a religious theme. Most tattoo artists tone down the color if the wearer wants a simple design. On the other hand, if you want to have flashy show of colors, your tattoo artist may concentrate on the intricacy of the design.
Sometimes, a dove that carries an olive branch symbolizes peace and love. It is closely linked to the Bible Story about how Noah saved hundreds of people during the Great Flood.
If you want to show pride in your convictions, you may choose dove tattoo. In addition to exactly what kind of dove tattoo would you have, you also need to think about where you are going to place it.
7. Feather
Whether you choose to have bold and colorful or simple yet symbolic feather tattoo design, this design has rich history. And if you wish to have a more meaningful design, try getting to know the type of feather that you wish to have.
For a single fallen feather tattoo, it may symbolize birth, luck or loss. It may also be a representation of a family tribe or a clan. If you want feathered inspiration, you may consider scouring photos of birds and their unique feather patterns and colors.
Once you have found a feather that you like, get to know more about the bird and its culture. Does it represent some greater significance to your life?
8. Hawk
It is a symbolic animal that has been mentioned in various history books and cultures. Hawk tattoo is usually sported by men. However, a few women, these days, are now getting a hawk design.
The hawk is associated with the Greek sun god. It symbolizes intelligence and perspective. Because of its trait and ability, the hawk design is an ideal symbol to represent success.
Other meanings of hawk will include truth, honor, fidelity, hunter, healing and vision, among others.
One of the popular hawk tattoo designs to consider is a tribal hawk. It is usually tattooed on the legs, chest and arms.
Tattoos have different meanings. They are an expression of your personality. Thus, you should choose one carefully. Browse through our suggested popular tattoo designs again and find the one that can give significance to your life. Make sure that you have it designed by a tattoo expert.
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