Meaning of a tear tattoo

Jail staff can stay safer by knowing as much as they can about inmates. Here are 15 tattoos and their secret meanings. Know a different meaning for the tattoos displayed here? Share it in the comments.

The teardrop tattoo or tear tattoo is a symbolic tattoo of a tear that is placed underneath the eye. The teardrop is one of the most widely recognised prison tattoos [1] and has various meanings. It can signify that the wearer has spent time in prison, [2] [3] or more specifically that the wearer was raped while incarcerated and tattooed by the rapist as a "property" mark and for humiliation, since facial tattoos cannot be concealed. The tattoo is sometimes worn by the female companions of prisoners in solidarity with their loved ones. It can acknowledge the loss of a friend or family member: Basketball player Amar'e Stoudemire has had a teardrop tattoo since honouring his older brother Hazell Jr. In West Coast gang culture USA , the tattoo may signify that the wearer has killed someone [11] [12] and in some of those circles, the tattoo's meaning can change: an empty outline meaning the wearer attempted murder.

Meaning of a tear tattoo

Tattoos have a long and fascinating history on their own, representing a complex world that may be hidden to some. Many designs not only communicate a distinct identity but also declare remarkable beliefs. But jail tattoos take it up a notch: despite the hard setting that these tattoos come from, many of them carry rich symbolism , often blending the esoteric with the practical, the shocking with the plain. Many of these jailhouse tattoos have crossed over to mainstream culture, although some people might be unaware of their origins. Here are some jailhouse tattoos and their hidden meanings:. What does a teardrop tattoo mean? Easily one of the most popular prison tattoos in popular culture, the teardrop tattoo actually has a less innocent meaning behind it. The meaning of teardrop tattoos can vary depending on the geography, but they all have the same premise: it symbolizes murder. A teardrop tattoo on the face means that the person has committed murder. A teardrop outline represents attempted murder, but it could also mean that the person has a friend who was murdered and that they are now currently seeking vengeance. A filled in teardrop means a death has been avenged.

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A teardrop tattoo is a small tattoo in the shape of a teardrop near one or both eyes. It is closely associated with gang and prison culture, where it often indicates one has served time, one has been humiliated, or one has killed. Others may get such a tattoo to represent sorrow or loss. While the practice is almost certainly older, written evidence for teardrop tattoo comes in the s, noted in a New Yorker article about a Mexican gang member who spent time in prison. The symbolism of the teardrop tattoo widely varies, however. This tattoo often appears under the left eye.

The teardrop tattoo, an iconic symbol inked beneath the eye, carries profound significance and symbolism within the world of body art. It has garnered attention and intrigue for its enigmatic nature and diverse interpretations. By exploring the history, cultural context, and personal stories attached to this symbol, we can unravel its multifaceted meaning. Originating from prison culture, the teardrop tattoo has been associated with various connotations. A study published in The Journal of Criminal Justice and Popular Culture highlights its prevalence as a marker of criminal history and alleged kill count among inmates. However, its interpretation extends beyond prison walls. Beyond the confines of the prison system, the teardrop tattoo assumes different meanings.

Meaning of a tear tattoo

Tattoos serve as personal narratives, stories etched into our skin. Amidst the myriad designs, the tear tattoo emerges, evoking curiosity and a fundamental question: What does a tattoo of a tear mean? A teardrop tattoo encapsulates diverse meanings, symbolizing experiences with loss, mourning, or time spent in prison. Its roots trace back to prison culture, signifying involvement in a violent act. Beyond this, it embodies resilience, personal transformation, or emotional struggles. Approaching the tear tattoo with authority and empathy, I navigate its cultural nuances and personal narratives. This ink, deeply embedded in symbolism, becomes a canvas for profound expression. Through extensive research, I unravel the intricate web of meanings. Embark on a journey to unveil the untold stories behind teardrop tattoos! From profound symbols of resilience to echoes of past struggles, each inked tear conceals a unique tale.

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Washington City Paper. With these budget-friendly machines, tattoo artists can create professional-grade teardrop tattoos without breaking the bank. These are not likely to be jailhouse tattoos, as tattoo artists in prisons rarely, if at all, have access to multiple colors of ink. Cross on the chest Photo Adimaz. Contents move to sidebar hide. Go to mobile version. The Russian prison tattoo system contains a highly intricate, often esoteric, hierarchy of symbols that can represent different meanings depending on placement. About The Author. You can also find them on fingers. European countries South Korea the United States. Prison Gangs. It can also mean that the person with this tattoo sees life as a gamble, pushing their luck and usually losing. This is not meant to be a formal definition of teardrop tattoo like most terms we define on Dictionary. This tattoo is commonly found on the elbow, signifying sitting around so long with your elbows on the table that a spider made a web on your elbow, though it can also be located on the neck.

The teardrop tattoo or tear tattoo is a symbolic tattoo of a tear that is placed underneath the eye. The teardrop is one of the most widely recognised prison tattoos [1] and has various meanings.

Wonderful start to the week. A teardrop outline represents attempted murder, but it could also mean that the person has a friend who was murdered and that they are now currently seeking vengeance. Creating the perfect teardrop tattoo requires skill, precision, and the right tools. The clock with no hands Photo Tattoo Me Pink. Wikimedia Commons. Mike Smith Mike Smith, a talented writer and devoted art enthusiast with a deep love for tattoos. Various services provide removal of the teardrop tattoo , among others, for former gang members and inmates. The teardrop tattoo or tear tattoo is a symbolic tattoo of a tear that is placed underneath the eye. Why does the rapper have four teardrop tattoos? Photo SAS. The idea of placing the cobwebs on elbows or on hands is that it signifies sitting with your hands or elbows on a table for so long that a spider has woven a web on you. This tattoo is commonly found on the elbow, signifying sitting around so long with your elbows on the table that a spider made a web on your elbow, though it can also be located on the neck. This tattoo can be found internationally, among both American and European inmates.