A teardrop tattoo under the eye is one of the most recognizable and symbolic tattoos in the world. Its meaning can vary depending on culture, personal experience, and context, but it is often associated with loss, prison time, and personal struggles.
Common Meanings of the Teardrop Tattoo
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Loss and Mourning
– Represents the death of a loved one or someone close.
– Often worn as a memorial to someone lost due to violence or tragedy. -
Prison Time or Criminal Past
– In prison culture, a filled-in teardrop may mean the person has committed murder.
– An outline teardrop can indicate time served in prison or losing someone in prison. -
Survival and Hardship
– Can represent enduring trauma, overcoming hardship, or mental and emotional battles.
– Worn as a symbol of resilience and personal strength. -
Gang Affiliation (in some cases)
– In some places, the teardrop tattoo is associated with gang culture, marking loyalty, loss, or violent acts within gang life.
Modern Interpretations
- Today, some people choose this tattoo for artistic reasons, or to symbolize emotional pain, loss, or survival, without criminal ties.
- It’s important to note that this tattoo can still carry strong social stigma or misinterpretation, depending on location.
Final Thoughts
The teardrop tattoo under the eye is a powerful and controversial symbol, often representing loss, time served, or personal battles. Because of its strong associations, it’s essential to understand its meaning and social perception before getting or interpreting this tattoo.
