What does a tattooed teardrop 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, what does a tattooed teardrop mean, 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 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.

What does a tattooed teardrop mean

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.

But jail tattoos take it up a notch: despite the hard setting that these tattoos come from, many of them carry rich symbolismoften blending the esoteric with the practical, the shocking with the plain. The tattoo is sometimes worn by the female companions of prisoners in solidarity with their loved ones. The symbolism of the teardrop tattoo widely varies, however.

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.

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.

What does a tattooed teardrop mean

These tattoos come in a wide range of designs and may be combined with one or more other tattoo options. They are a popular option across ink shops all over the world, but should you get one? Do you know all the hidden meanings associated with such a design? Read on. Scientists are yet to establish a unifying reason for why we cry and shed tears, but in humans, tears represent a response to emotional stimuli. They run down your face when you are crying as a result of sadness, anger, remorse or joy. Generally, however, we have learned to associate tears with negative emotions only. The meaning of teardrop tattoos remains a hot debate that will not end anytime soon. However, there are a few widely accepted meanings. Teardrop tattoos can signify that the individual has spent some time in prison, during which he or she was a victim of abuse.

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Wonderful start to the week. Retrieved 28 February 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. Who uses teardrop tattoo? Another, less popular symbolism for this prison tattoo is solidarity or support. Sports Grid. Aryan Brotherhood Photo Media Lib. Because tears symbolize sadness, that struggle could be a tragic incident or a traumatic event. 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. Some take it upon themselves to warn others of those negative connotations of the teardrop tattoo. This tattoo is very popular in Russian prisons, where each deck has its own meaning.

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.

Know a different meaning for the tattoos displayed here? About The Author. Pop Culture dictionary teardrop tattoo or tear drop tattoo [ teer- drop ta-too] August 20, Another example are bells, symbolizing freedom, or a tiger on the chest is symbolic of aggression toward the police. Unlike American tattoos, these suites are usually applied in Russian prison by force, usually as a punishment for breaking prison codes of honor, or if they insult a high-ranking gang member. There are now MS chapters all over the U. Other details of the crown, such as the colors of the jewels in the points, can have a whole other level of hidden meanings. Talk Like a Pirate D This applies to gambling games both within prison and without; it can also represent a person who generally views life as a gamble. The three dot tattoo is often created using a stick-and-poke method, requiring very rudimentary tools. The symbolism of the teardrop tattoo widely varies, however. Also known as the quincunx, the four dots on the outside represent four walls, with the fifth on the inside representing the prisoner. In a court case the defendant, a year- old boy, was found guilty of manslaughter and firearm offenses, prompting a year prison sentence.