What does the teardrop tattoo mean

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.

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.

What does the teardrop tattoo mean

Log in to check out faster. FREE U. Prison tattoos are something of a bad stain on the tattoo industry. After all, many of the individuals who decide to take their life on a different path want to rid themselves of these shameful marks on their bodies, but that's a topic for another blog entry. Prison tattoos are the most easily identifiable pieces because of their crude nature and simplicity. Here are some of them and their meaning:. This number carries a load of negativity with it. The numbers 14 or 88 on their own can also be used and tend to sometimes create confusion. Typically, these tattoos can be found anywhere on the body. It's one of the most recognized prison tattoos around.

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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. 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.

The teardrop tattoo, a poignant symbol etched into the skin, carries a tapestry of meanings. Its origins, rooted in prison culture, once signaled involvement in violence. Today, it weaves a spectrum of experiences—from loss and mourning to resilience and personal transformation. Each teardrop is a unique story, intimately connected to the narrative and cultural context. Join me on this nuanced exploration as we delve into the complex tapestry of emotions and experiences behind the teardrop tattoo what does it mean.

What does the teardrop tattoo mean

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. Where does it come from? Well, it first appeared in mainstream media as part of prison culture in the s in New York. A popular magazine published an article about a gang member who was imprisoned in the United States and he donned the now-famous teardrop on his upper cheek. The exact meaning behind the prison teardrop tattoo, however, is highly controversial. In a general sense, one can say that it symbolizes the downsides of being in prison.

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Tools Tools. Retrieved 28 February Some claim that A. An urban myth exists in some circles that the teardrop means the wearer is a murderer; this myth was likely started by those that have been raped and 'teardropped' in prison. In other projects. Redefine your inbox with Dictionary. More recently, trendy rappers, hipsters, etc. Various services provide removal of the teardrop tattoo , among others, for former gang members and inmates. Notable wearers are said to include convicted felon Jeremy Meeks, who went viral for an attractive mugshot. Retrieved 3 November The tattoo is placed on the face to further humiliate the victim and mark them in a place where they could not cover the mark. Aryan Brotherhood Photo Media Lib. Typically, these tattoos can be found anywhere on the body.

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.

A tattoo of a teardrop , under the eye of a person that has been raped in prison. Getting a teardrop tattoo on my face because she fed me hotdogs for dinner. Their industries range from dealing drugs to child prostitution. Categories : Symbols Tattoo designs Prison culture Prison rape. Here are some of them and their meaning:. In the s, the late Amy Winehouse got a teardrop tattoo as did rapper Lil Wayne in to express personal distress or loss. Confusion about it's meaning has come from the victim's having to explain the tattoo when they get out of prison and have to explain it to family and loved one's. Teardrop tattoo. September 03, PM. MS 13 Photo Wikimedia. Those who are newbies behind bars with a teardrop tattoo will make a lot of enemies, fast. Made famous by Johnny Depp's character in the movie Crybaby.