Meaning of a teardrop tattoo

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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 teardrop 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. 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 numbers 14 or 88 on their own can also be used, which sometimes creates confusion. Typically, these tattoos can be found anywhere on the body. Cobwebs typically represent a lengthy term in prison. The symbolism is associated with spiders trapping prey; or criminals trapped behind bars. 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. Teardrop Photo trendfashion In some places, the tattoo can mean a lengthy prison sentence, while in others it signifies that the wearer has committed murder. If the teardrop is just an outline, it can symbolize an attempted murder. The teardrop has been popularized recently by rappers and other celebrities, but still remains a staple in prisons. Those who are newbies behind bars with a teardrop tattoo will make a lot of enemies, fast.

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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.

Teardrop tattoos have long been surrounded by mystery, speculation, and controversy. This enigmatic tattoo design, usually placed under the eye, has a history that is often misunderstood. Here we will discover the origins, variations, and meanings of the teardrop tattoo, its influence on popular culture, and the stories of those who choose it. Since the s, the teardrop tattoo has been associated with gang culture. It is believed that the tattoo was initially used to signify that the wearer had killed someone or committed a violent crime. In some gangs, members would earn a teardrop tattoo for each person they killed to display their status and reputation. The teardrop tattoo also has roots in prison culture. It symbolized solidarity among incarcerated individuals who experienced the death of a fellow inmate or family member. In some cases, it was also used to represent the years spent behind bars. The number of teardrops tattooed can signify different things.

Meaning of a teardrop tattoo

In the intricate tapestry of body art, few designs stir as much intrigue and controversy as the teardrop tattoo. A small, simple outline of a drop beneath the eye, this tattoo carries a weight far beyond its modest size. Historically enveloped in a cloak of mystery and dark connotations, the teardrop tattoo has been a symbol met with both curiosity and caution. Its meanings are as varied as they are profound, often rooted in loss, sorrow, or the endurance of challenging times. Yet, in some circles, misinterpretations abound, leading to widespread speculation about the wearer's past and intentions. As we delve deeper into the origins and evolving perceptions of the teardrop tattoo, it's crucial to approach with an open mind and a readiness to confront the complexities of its symbolism.

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Article Talk. Due to its associations with bad boys and sad boys, the teardrop tattoo is sometimes an object of admiration—or source of humor. Corrections Prison Gangs Prison Tattoos. Retrieved 28 February Prison tattoos are something of a bad stain on the tattoo industry. Because of its negative associations in mainstream culture, the tattoo has proven problematic for some. Log in to check out faster. Support the Wisconsin Parade Tragedy. This tattoo is very popular in Russian prisons, where each deck has its own meaning. Talk Like a Pirate D

Tattoos have been around for a long time, with different meanings and symbolism behind each one. One of the most recognizable tattoos is the tear drop tattoo.

The teardrop tattoo or tear tattoo is a symbolic tattoo of a tear that is placed underneath the eye. This is the symbol of the Latin Kings gang, which is one of the biggest Hispanic gangs in the U. All Store Products. Read Edit View history. By C1 Staff Jail staff can stay safer by knowing as much as they can about inmates. Other details of the crown, such as the colors of the jewels in the points, can have a whole other level of hidden meanings. Retrieved 20 September Also known as the quincunx, the four dots on the outside represent four walls, with the fifth on the inside representing the prisoner. 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. A spade represents a thief; clubs symbolize criminals in general. Typically these tattoos can be found anywhere on the body, but are most often found in highly visible places like the face, hands or neck. Motivating Offender Change program. This tattoo can be found internationally, among both American and European inmates.