What does a teardrop tattoo on the eye 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. Others may get such a tattoo to represent sorrow or loss.

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.

What does a teardrop tattoo on the eye mean

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. Contents move to sidebar hide. Article Talk. Read Edit View history.

Go to mobile version. Contents move to sidebar hide. Tattoos have a long and fascinating history on their own, representing a complex world that may be hidden to some.

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:.

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. This article aims to shed light on the multifaceted nature of this poignant emblem, navigating through its controversial aspects and the diverse interpretations it garners across different cultures and communities. Warning : Please be advised that the following content will explore themes and narratives that some readers may find distressing. Reader discretion is advised as we proceed to unravel the intricate layers of meaning behind the teardrop tattoo.

What does a teardrop tattoo on the eye 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. 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.

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Teardrop Photo trendfashion Download as PDF Printable version. Retrieved 20 September Some claim that A. By C1 Staff Jail staff can stay safer by knowing as much as they can about inmates. Mike Smith Mike Smith, a talented writer and devoted art enthusiast with a deep love for tattoos. Categories : Symbols Tattoo designs Prison culture Prison rape. As a creative soul, Mike's passion for arts, culture, music, and lifestyle shines through his engaging writing. This tattoo often appears under the left eye. Risks aside, many find the morose meanings of the teardrop tattoo an attractive look. In a court case the defendant, a year- old boy, was found guilty of manslaughter and firearm offenses, prompting a year prison sentence.

If you are thinking of getting into the realm of having your face inked then an under the eye tattoo would be a great place to start. The security has clearly shifted and has accepted tattoos more and more.

Johnny Depp wears a teardrop tattoo as a melancholy heartthrob in the film Cry-Baby for his ability to shed a single tear at will. Mike Smith Mike Smith, a talented writer and devoted art enthusiast with a deep love for tattoos. However, this application is by no means limited to gang or prison culture. Next: 15 more prison tattoos and their meanings. If the teardrop is just an outline, it can symbolize an attempted murder. Prison Gangs. Cross on the chest Photo Adimaz. The three-dot tattoo is usually found around the eyes, or on the hands near the base of the thumb, and unlike other jailhouse tattoos, the three-dot tattoo is most often created using the stick-and-poke method with makeshift tools. Aryan Brotherhood Photo Media Lib. Share it in the comments. The numbers 14 or 88 on their own can also be used, which sometimes creates confusion. 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. Their industries range from dealing drugs to child prostitution. Russian prisons have a unique and intricate history of prison tattoos, each with their own unique meaning. 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.