100+ Meaningful Tattoo Ideas For Men And Cool Designs To Ink Your Body

If you have decided to commit to a tattoo, then you might need some really good tattoo ideas for men. Although modern cosmetic surgery allows removing ink from your body with ease, this is probably the least desirable thing you want to do. So that you do not have to feel instant regret after the tattoo session, we have prepared this insightful guide, which will not only provide you with a dose of inspiration but also explain what the most common men tattoos mean.

Ask an expert: What is the best tattoo for men (in your opinion)?

Ewer Sumati

Expertise: Tattoo Expert

I really like male tattoos with strong and traditional lines. The Oriental and Old School American Styles, in my opinion, never get old for a male tattoo. I also like the styles I do, since the Trash Polka style is a tattoo done in my studio for almost 100% of men! This realistic and abstract art mixture looks so aggressively flashy!

Lion Sleeve Realistic Style

The lion is a symbol of leadership, confidence, and strength. This design, created by Adan Sanchez, a tattooist from Albuquerque, reflects the fierce nature of the beast, which can correlate with your inner world perfectly.

Watercolor Space Theme Sleeve

The space theme is utterly mesmerizing and magnetic, which is why many men choose to transform it into a captivating sleeve piece. This artwork from Koray Karagözler, an abstract Berlin Tattoo artist, opens up new worlds and inspires imagination.

Watercolor Octopus

Octopuses are enigmatic and very symbolic creatures. They project flexibility and rebirth, not to mention that they look breathtakingly beautiful!

Tiger's Eyes and Sword

Tigers are the epitome of courage, while swords underline one's ability to defend what's theirs. This is one of many captivating tattoo ideas for men that have come from under the needle of Iván Ruotolo from Barcelona. There's more where it comes from!

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Little Kraken on Hand

The Kraken is a mythical creature that introduces a touch of mystery and unpredictability to the ink. A tattoo artist, Chapta from London, has done their best to liven up the image of the creature by placing it on the hand. Not every movement will bring the art to life.

Above the Clouds

You can mix and match your favorite tattoo styles into a single design as long as you have a dedicated professional to work with. The majestic and wise owl makes a powerful alliance with geometric art, and we can't help but praise the masterpiece!

Sugar Skull Female Portrait

Sugar skulls are a perfect mixture of cultural meaning and personal significance. If you seek an individual tribute to loved ones without losing the masculine appeal, it is an excellent example to brood upon.

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Full Black Sleeve

A full black sleeve is a trendy ink choice that many men opt for these days. The ink requires the complete dedication of the tattoo master to look as great as this work of art created by Hoode Philly, a famous blackout tattooist from Philadelphia.

Realistic Eagle with Outlines

Eagles are the ultimate symbol of freedom and independence. A realistic eagle located over the heart area speaks a thousand words about one's worldview and life choices.

Chest Butterflies

Butterflies are a perfectly masculine tattoo. Choose your own interpretation of this symbolic creature and let the artist capture the essence of natural beauty on your chest!

Watercolor Compass for Traveler

Knowing the right way is a unique attribute that only a handful of people are born with. If you want to emphasize your special powers or pay tribute to challenges you've dealt with in life, a compass tattoo will suffice for either purpose.

B/w Nun Portrait

You don't have to be a highly spiritual person to depict a nun on your arm. Such unconventional pieces like this ink from Sarah O'Connor from New Zealand will speak about your unconventional way of thinking and creative personality.

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Female Warrior Portrait

Female warriors usually carry a cultural significance, and many men decide to praise their famous characters. This colorful artwork from Claudia Denti, a cartoon tattooer from Italy, is bold and eye-catching.

Animalistic Chest Watercolor Tattoo

Most men associate themselves with certain animals. You can etch your totem symbol on your chest and let only those you trust peek at it.

Forearm Owl

Sometimes, it is hard to stick to a single tattoo style, especially if you like a few of them. That is where an expert artist can show off their skills. This owl arm piece is a perfect balance of realistic art, geometric style, and blackout work.

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Art Fusion

It seems like you can look at this masterpiece from Allen Brum, a professional, realistic tattoo artist, forever. It is bright, bold, and thought-inspiring. Not to mention that there's plenty of room for individual symbolism.

Blue-Eyed Lion

No matter how popular lion tats are among the men, no piece is ever the same. This black and white lion can capture anyone with its piercing-blue gaze!

Owl Neck Tattoo

A neck tattoo is a daring decision, so most people assign it with a deep meaning. We don't know what this owl design from a Ukrainian tattoo artist, Toma, who lives in Berlin, stands for, but the realism and the pose speak about strength and wisdom.

3D Spider Tattoo

Walter Messina from Florence is known for his 3D masterpieces. This black spider looks so real that one could scream with terror from a sheer glance at it.

Dotwork Style Wolf

There's a whole new level of realism that Alex Sorsa, a California tattoo artist, has created. This dotwork sneering wolf can make anyone tremble and yet carry an inspiring vibe.

"Family Is The Compass That Guides Us"

Spicing up meaningful ink with no less meaningful phrases is a great idea.

Chest Wolf Tattoo

Wolves are perfectly strong, loyal, and intelligent creatures. A mesmerizing wolf chest piece will let anyone know what you are made of!

Watercolor Combined With Geometric Deer Tattoo

Are you looking for a perfect blend of organic and abstract art spiced with a meaningful message? This watercolor deer art may point you in the right direction.

Watercolor Asian Woman Portrait

Asian beauty is praised all over the globe. Whether it is a personal token or an inspiring portrait idea, it looks impeccable when combined with watercolor framing.

Howling Alone

A lone wolf is a strong wolf. If you are proud of your independence and wild nature, this artwork by Korean tattooist Mate may inspire a new addition to your ink collection.

B/W Lion on Chest

There's something inexplicably mesmerizing about this Roman-era myth's black and white lion head, don't you agree?

Black Spider as a Symbol of Protection

In some cultures, spiders are referred to as the protectors. Jimmy Martins, who owns Mandume Tattoo Studio in Brazil, has created a perfect example you can inspire from if the connotation resonates with you.

Realistic Bear Half Sleeve

Bears are fierce creatures and dedicated guardians. Atlanta tattoo artist Rhiannon Barnes, the owner of Pink Rose Tattoo Studio, presents a masterpiece that instills fear in those who look at the sleeve and inspires courage in the wearer.

Octopus in Graphic Style

Andrey Lukovnikov, a Ukrainian tattoo artist who is based in Poland, is known for his octopus artworks. One glance at this realistic and determined octopus, and you will get the drill.

Deer Head Chest Tattoo

Your chest is the perfect location for a large tattoo. A majestic deer head looks like an ideal pretendant to occupy it.

Small Leg Octopus

Your tattoo does not have to be extra large to carry out a potent meaning.

Lion Headdress Woman Half Sleeve

There's something inexplicably appealing about dangerous women. The beauty and the wildness of this tattoo make it a perfect fit for a men's sleeve tat!

Realistic B/w Octopus Tattoo

A black and white ink can be even more realistic than a colorful piece, but it takes the right artist to depict it well.

Hand Octopus with Finger Tentacles

One of the advantageous aspects of octopus designs is that you can morph them into anything you want.

Watercolor Sun and Moon Tattoo with Galaxy Colors

The celestial harmony of the light and dark is breathtaking. Besides, it brings balance and inspires inner growth.

B/w Phoenix Arm Tattoo

There are situations in life that make you rise like a phoenix from the ashes. This ink piece created by Moona Autumn, a dark tattoo artist from Germany, projects the power and delicacy of this eternal symbol of rebirth.

Valkyrie Nordic Tattoo

Valkyries are fierce warrior maidens that are beautiful and just.

Thigh Skull with Flowers

Flowers aren't reserved for the ladies in the audience. Gents like pretty things, too, but they choose to intertwine them with darker themes, like skulls.

Forearm Phoenix

Need a constant reminder of the road you've come so far? A phoenix on the arm may be precisely the inspiration you seek!

Snake and a Split Skull

The duality of tattoo styles is visually striking. However, we think there's a deeper meaning to inspire from hidden behind.

Ram Skull Back Tattoo

The rams are incredibly determined and tough. You can borrow some of their traits and etch them into your own skin.

Half-Sleeve Realistic Octopus

Octopi come in many shapes and sizes, but a realistic picture shows the whole magnitude of beauty these creatures possess.

Small Skull Tattoo

Skulls are entitled to macabre and mystery. Maybe it is what makes them so required tattoo ideas for men?

Watercolor Sketch Skull Tattoo

An inked skull can tell a thousand tales. The question is – which story would you share?

Double Exposure Feather

Feathers are potent symbols. This artwork, created by Evgenii Malgin from Amsterdam, shows there are hidden meanings to everything in this world.

Brush Stroke Dragon

Dragons that come from under the ink needle of Vanzo, a tattoo artist from Sydney, are mind-blowing!

Human Skull with Swords

The art of skulls and swords is as old as the world itself, but modern ink gives the stream a new interpretation.

Small Chest Dragon

One can't have enough of mythical dragons. Whether it is your favorite fantasy character or a personal design creation, placing it on your chest is a wonderful idea.

Watercolor Moon Phases

Moon phases are more than just a beautiful natural phenomenon. While Nat Correa from Rio de Janeiro, an expert in blackwork and watercolor styles, creates the visual component, you are the one to assign it with a unique and personal meaning.

Native American Girl Portrait

Praise your cultural heritage or individual fascination with indigenous women through a detailed and breathtaking portrait tattoo.

Dark Moon Cover-Up

You may grow out of your old tats as you do of your clothes. No worries, a professional tattoo artist can create a beautiful cover-up to solve the matter. This dark moon tattoo may point you in the right direction.

Ask an expert: How to take care of a tattoo?

Ewer Sumati

Expertise: Tattoo Expert

The basic tattoo aftercare comes to using restorative skin creams with regenerating properties, abstaining from sunbathing, as well as from going to the beach and/or swimming pool, which may harm the healing process. The proper diet and balanced nutrition are also important. Once the tattoo is healed, I always ask my clients to use moisturizing creams that make the tattoos more visible, and also don't neglect sun protection.

Chest Tiger Design

As tigers rule the jungle, you can rule your life. Sometimes, it takes a slight push toward your goal, and a new tattoo may serve as the trigger.

Red Moon with а Snake

A tattoo does not have to be bright and colorful to steal one's breath away. Dark and mystical ink serves the goal just as well.

Watercolor Whale

Not many people know that whales symbolize tranquility and harmony. It seems like Eunyu, a Korean watercolor tattoo artist, managed to capture the serenity and majesty of this beast ideally.

Traditional Style Mermaid Tattoo

A realistic mermaid or a fantasy one is always a good tattoo option. However, Katie Willson from Toronto brings popularity to traditional mermaid art, and it is captivatingly gorgeous.

Black Snake

Snakes are cunning yet beautiful creatures. A skillful artwork like this possesses hypnotic powers many would obey.

Waves & Whale

If you like marine-inspired ink, this dynamic combo of splashing ocean and calm whale will come to your taste.

Pocket Clocks

There's no better way to memorize an important time than with a matching pocket clock tattoo. Federica Leppo from Rome has done a beautiful job here, wouldn't you agree?

Realistic Tiger and Plum Blossom

The tiger and blossom union outlines one's bravery that comes in harmony with intelligence and sensuality.

Clocks and Pine B/W Tattoo

Pine trees are the evergreens of nature that stand for durability. They root deep and can signify one's connection to home and family. Combining the symbol with a clock may emphasize the precious time you spend together with those you love.

Back Japanese Tattoo

The unique beauty of traditional Japanese ink deserves the best display, and this back piece proves it.

Minimalistic Lines

Express your love for minimalism with a creative and bright arm tattoo.

Medusa Statue

Medusa is a powerful symbol of strength and resilience. This chilling piece by Márk Bálint represents the deadly nature of all-encompassing beauty.

Japanese Cat

Discover fresh horizons with the unlimited versatility of cat tattoos. We are sure that a Japanese cat ink like this is both impressive and memorable.

Sphynx Cat With a Moon

Losing friends is heartbreaking, but you can carry your loved ones through life etched in your skin.

B/W Mermaid Design

This dreamy mermaid by Jacque López, a popular Lisbon tattoo artist, is an eternal ode to beauty and simplicity.

One Piece Anime Theme Tattoo

You can pay tribute and immortalize your favorite anime characters with a detailed sleeve tattoo.

Equilibrio

Finding balance in life is the priority that many seek.

Tattoo Sleeve Ideas for Men

Sleeves are among the most popular tattoo ideas for men. They look very impactful and eye catching. Getting one guarantees that you will not go unnoticed.

Hand Tattoos

Hand tattoos for men are a fun way to showcase personal style and make a lasting impression. From intricate designs wrapped around your fingers to colorful symbols on the back of your hand, the possibilities are varied.

Owl Tattoos

Owls are often described as intelligent and wise animals, which is why they make up very cool tattoo ideas for men who love to study or just got their academic degrees. As owls are night predators that hunt and live mostly when it is dark, they are considered a symbol of dealing with misfortune and sorrow.

Blackout Tattoos

Blackout tattoos for men offer a bold and distinctive aesthetic, with solid black ink allowing for dramatic designs that often cover large areas of skin. Whether it's geometric patterns, abstract shapes or artistic interpretations, blackout tattoos create a canvas for self-expression that captivates and intrigues.

Rose Tattoos for Men

Roses are very popular tattoo ideas for men, as they represent love, beauty, passion and affection. So, they are often inked near the heart. Do not be afraid to add some color to it.

Eagle Tattoos

Eagles are regarded as free, courageous and powerful birds. No wonder they are extremely popular tattoo ideas for men chest, arm and other parts of the body. To emphasize your intelligence, determination and bravery, get one of the forearm tattoo ideas for men inked.

Butterfly Tattoo

Butterflies are beautiful on many levels, including spiritual and material. When you get a butterfly tattooed on your body, it may signify achieving balance after some change. For butterfly tats, there is no good or bad place. They are equally amazing chest, hand, back, shin and arm tattoo ideas for men.

Compass Tattoo for Men

Back in the day, a compass tattoo was expected to attract good luck and light up a safe way home from journeys. So, if you are an adventurous guy who likes to take risks, it makes sense to get a compass tattoo.

Portrait Tattoos

A portrait is usually among the most special tattoo ideas for men. If you want to honor someone or show how important they are to you, getting their portrait inked is always a good idea. However, you can also depict someone you admire, be it a celebrity or a notable person.

Lion Tattoos For Men

Lions are associated with power, authority and dominance. If this is the message you want your inked image to deliver, then a lion tattoo is your best bet.

Wolf Tattoos

Wolves are amazing tattoo ideas for men arm, especially if you decide to combine them with images of a forest and other wildlife. Wolf tats mean power, courage and loyalty, which are the qualities that are often attributed to these noble animals.

Deer Tattoo Designs

Deer tattoos are associated with sanctity, spirituality and revival. Celts describe a deer as feminine, delicate and sophisticated. Yet, no matter what explanation you prefer, a deer is one of the best front, side and back tattoo ideas for men.

Spider Tattoo

Spider tattoos are a visual representation of a harmonious and balanced lifestyle, as well as wisdom and even fertility. By getting one, you bring these virtues to your life. And since every spider web is one of a kind, it can be one of the most unique tattoo ideas for men.

Bear Tattoo

If you have a strong spirit and tend to never give up, a bear tattoo may be a perfect option for you. Although it works for any part of your body, a bear is among the best leg tattoo ideas for men.

Octopus Tattoo

Those who have octopus tattoos imply that they can multitask and have spiritual understanding. You are a quick thinker and have overcome your fears. You are strong and laugh in the face of danger. If this sounds like you, then an octopus tat is your way to go.

Sun Tattoo

If you get a sun tat inked on your body, it is going to be linked to light, truth and power. It suggests that you have overcome challenges and darkness in your life to get to the light. If you are looking for meaningful tattoo ideas for men small, medium or large, a sun tattoo is your sure bet.

Phoenix Tattoo

Phoenix is known for its ability to be reborn. That is why a phoenix tattoo is a great way to mark the beginning of a new life or some positive changes in it. For phoenix tattoo ideas for men forearm, chest and leg are the best locations.

Skull Tattoo

Because it is associated with death, a skull tattoo has a rather grim or even evil vibe. But this can be changed with the help of your imagination. There are plenty of skull arm, chest, neck and leg tattoo ideas for men out there. You just need to select the style that resonates with you most.

Feather Tattoo Design

Feather tattoos have become increasingly popular among men as a symbol of freedom, spirituality, and masculinity. Whether you opt for a single feather or a collection of feathers, this tattoo design offers a visually captivating and meaningful way to make a statement about your identity and values.

Arrow Men Tattoo

Arrow tattoos have gained significant popularity among men as a powerful symbol of strength, direction, and determination. Whether you choose a single arrow or a more intricate design, this tattoo represents the ability to overcome obstacles and strive for success.

Tattoo of a Dragon

Dragon tattoos are popular for their symbolic representation of power, strength, and wisdom. They can be designed in various styles, from traditional to realistic, and placed on different body parts.

Shark Tattoo

When it comes to tattoos, the shark design holds a special place for men who want to embody strength and courage. The shark symbolizes raw power, resilience, and adaptability, making it a perfect choice for those who exude confidence and fearlessness. These tattoos often feature intricate details, capturing the essence of these majestic creatures with remarkable realism.

Moon Tattoo

Just as the moon waxes and wanes, casting its ethereal glow across the night sky, these tattoos can embody concepts of transformation, balance, and the ever-changing nature of life's journey.

Tiger Tattoos

Nothing speaks the presence and primal energy quite like the majestic tiger. With its fierce yet graceful demeanor, a tiger tattoo has emerged as a possibility for men to captivate strength, courage, and untamed vitality.

Tattoo of a Whale

A whale tattoo can help you project a sense of wonder, strength, and a deep connection with nature. Just as these gentle giants navigate the vast seas, these tattoos can navigate the currents of personal meaning, embodying concepts of wisdom, resilience, and a profound harmony with the world around us.

Clocks Tattoos

A clock tattoo, with its intricate gears and hands that mark the passage of moments, will encapsulate concepts of time, life's journey, and the constant reminder of our mortal existence like nothing else.

Japanese Tattoos

Japanese tattoos are a testament to the profound fusion of culture, history, and artistic expression. With their intricate designs, rich symbolism, and deep-rooted traditions, Japanese tattoos captivate the beauty of an ancient culture and convey their own personal narratives.

Minimalist Men Tattoos

Tattoos for men do not always have to be overly elaborate or extensive, especially if you are getting inked for the first time. There are plenty of minimalist and simple tattoo ideas for men that you can never go wrong with. They usually feature simple lines and designs with little to no detailing and shading.

Snake Tattoos

A snake tattoo, with its curved form and enigmatic presence, holds a myriad of meanings, from transformation and rebirth to wisdom and power. Much like the snake's ability to shed its skin and emerge anew, these tattoos can embody a man's journey of growth, renewal, and exploring life's mysteries.

Peonies Tattoos for Men

Despite the popular opinion, floral patterns don't make men look less manly, but rather the opposite. It takes courage and strength to reveal your sensitive side and stress the thirst for romance in you. Thus, the peony emerges as an unexpected yet captivating choice for men seeking to express beauty, strength, and a connection to the profound.

Lotus Flower Tattoo

The lotus flower is an emblem of unwavering strength, transformation, and spiritual depth. A lotus flower tattoo, with its delicate yet powerful presence, can become a symbol of your unique journeys and life experiences.

Ask an expert: Can I practice physical activity after getting a tattoo?

Ewer Sumati

Expertise: Tattoo Expert

This largely depends on where your tattoo is done. The inflamed skin area that has suffered trauma needs rest for the skin cells to regenerate. The repetitive movements from gym exercises can “break” the tissue fibers that are in the healing process. Therefore, it's better to wait at least a week before you go back to the gym.

Eye Tattoo

The eye emerges as truly a potent and enigmatic symbol. It holds immense power to convey depth, perception, and many emotions. An eye tattoo, with its intricate details and mesmerizing gaze, means that you are open to new experiences and ready to learn from whichever lesson life will give.

Line Tattoos

Lines are also one of the best first tattoo ideas for men, as they are less painful compared to other tats because they do not involve shading. But even if you are already an experienced tattooee, this tattoo design may resonate with you. As it comes in a myriad of styles, it allows you to create a unique and personalized inked image of great significance to you.

Lettering Tattoos with Meaning

Arguably the best tattoo ideas for men with meaning are those featuring lettering. This can be anything, from your partner’s name to the name of the place where you met. Of course, a lettering tattoo should not necessarily be associated with your loved ones. You can celebrate your personal accomplishment in this way or commemorate a significant event.

Alicorn Tattoo

The alicorn is a mesmerizing fusion of equine grace and ethereal magic. Being a unique breed of a unicorn and Pegasus, the creature combines all the best features of the two. Thus, it allows you to embrace fantasy, show your power, and deeply connect to the mystical.

Otter Tattoo

We must admit – an otter tattoo isn't the most common design you'll see etched on someone's skin. However, the otter can be a delightful and unexpected symbol, representing qualities of playfulness, unity, and resilience. With its whimsical attitude and intricate aquatic lifestyle, an otter tattoo may correspond with your personality and express your individuality on a new level.

Medusa Tattoo Ideas

Not many figures from mythology captivate the imagination quite like Medusa – the Gorgon whose gaze could turn mortals to stone. A Medusa tattoo vibrates with themes of power, transformation, and the dichotomy of beauty and danger. Just as Medusa's tale weaves together elements of tragedy and strength, these tattoos can reflect a man's complex nature and his journey through life's intricacies.

A Cat Tattoo

The feline form captures traits of mystery, elegance, and an undeniable sense of independence. With intricate details and rich cultural significance, a cat tattoo presents new ways of expressing your life views and individuality.

Mermaid Tattoos

There's little wonder since the mermaid emerges as an enchanting and timeless symbol, weaving tales of allure, mystique, and a profound connection to the sea. Just as mermaids navigate the depths with mesmerizing grace, these tattoos can embody a man's ability to embrace the mysteries of life and take on new, exciting paths and adventures.

Pokemon Tattoo Design

This design is perfect for anyone who is a fan of popular anime 'Pokemon'.

Anime Tattoos

Anime tattoos stand as a unique and captivating choice for men seeking to express their love for art, storytelling, and the boundless realm of animation. You can encapsulate your favorite narratives, symbols, and emotions from the world of anime.

Koi Fish Tattoo

The koi fish is an exceptionally symbolic and rich choice that embodies qualities of courage, transformation and a deep connection to nature. A koi fish tattoo, with its intricate patterns and vivid colors, is present throughout Japanese culture, so if you feel connected to it, it is a great idea to show your appreciation.

Angel Tattoos

Angel tattoos are quite popular among men as they bring special meaning for each person, no matter if you have religious undertone or not.

• A tattoo is a form of body modification made by inserting tattoo ink, dyes, and/or pigments, either indelible or temporary, into the dermis layer of the skin to form a design. Source