Meaning of a tear tattoo

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 meaning of a tear tattoo 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.

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.

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. Other sources also indicate that a tear tattoo could mean remorse; one teardrop under the eye serves as a reminder to the person of a mistake. Another, less popular symbolism for this prison tattoo is solidarity or support. In some prisons, the meaning of teardrop tattoos differs depending on which side it is on.

The teardrop tattoooften under the right eye, may also signal sad sentiments more generally. White supremacists use a variety of nazi symbols as tattoos, from the most common swastika and German eagle, to the lightning bolt and SS. Examples Origin Usage.

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. Be sure to check out more of our coverage on prison tattoos, including 15 more prison tattoos and their meanings , 12 Russian prison tattoos and their meanings , and a collection of inmate takes on prison ink.

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

When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. The teardrop tattoo is often used as a trope in movies as a gang or prison tattoo. Teardrop tattoos can be very meaningful. At times, they may even have more than one that is either filled with black or left as an outline only. This type of teardrop tattoo is featured in pop culture so often, that it is by far the most renowned tear tattoo.

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The gang and criminal associations of the teardrop tattoo make it sometimes referenced as an object of fear—perhaps as originally intended. A spade represents a thief; clubs symbolize criminals in general. Scroll to Top. Corrections Prison Gangs Prison Tattoos. Others may get such a tattoo to represent sorrow or loss. Diamonds are reserved for stoolpigeons and informants — if the cards have this deck, then it was likely applied with force. About The Author. Wonderful start to the week. September 03, PM. Notable wearers are said to include convicted felon Jeremy Meeks, who went viral for an attractive mugshot. Here are some jailhouse tattoos and their hidden meanings:. Sports Grid.

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.

Here are 15 tattoos and their secret meanings. Getting a teardrop tattoo on my face because she fed me hotdogs for dinner. By C1 Staff Jail staff can stay safer by knowing as much as they can about inmates. Be sure to check out more of our coverage on prison tattoos, including 15 more prison tattoos and their meanings , 12 Russian prison tattoos and their meanings , and a collection of inmate takes on prison ink. Here are some jailhouse tattoos and their hidden meanings: Table of Contents. As a creative soul, Mike's passion for arts, culture, music, and lifestyle shines through his engaging writing. Your email address will not be published. A filled in teardrop means a death has been avenged. Because tears symbolize sadness, that struggle could be a tragic incident or a traumatic event. Sometimes the exact meaning of the tattoo is known only by the wearer: [12] [13] Portuguese footballer Ricardo Quaresma has never explained his teardrop tattoos. Categories : Symbols Tattoo designs Prison culture Prison rape. The meaning of teardrop tattoos can vary depending on the geography, but they all have the same premise: it symbolizes murder. One thing to note, though: there are plenty of cobweb tattoos in popular culture that make use of multiple colors. Retrieved 3 November