Meaningful Wrist Tattoos— Art Worth to Stare at All Day 

The wrist is one of the most noticeable parts of the human body. Since it’s so noticeable, then how come wrist tattoos are such delicate and subtle pieces of art? 

Maybe it’s because of the fact that they’re noticeable from certain angles and movements of the arm. Wrist tattoos give us the freedom to showcase a piece of us without being too flashy — and that’s the perfect combo right there!

Wrist tattoos are one of the most popular tattoo spots amongst tattoo enthusiasts. From hardcore celebrities to loving moms, everybody adores the place. Plus, you can experiment with the position all you want — you may end up getting a sleeve from your side wrist tattoo. 

Today, tattoo fans will discover everything there is to know about these tattoos, including the significance behind them. Some of the more notable tattoos people choose for this spot have a more minimalistic design, tiny wrist tattoos like a cute alien, geometric figure, or a meaningful, yet simple quote. 

We’ll talk in great detail about the meaning of tattoos on hands and wrists. There are so many designs and styles to choose from. ‘Till then — let’s learn more about their history, pain level, and possible cons of wrist tattoos. 

History Of Wrist Tattoos

In the present day, almost every tattoo addict is considered a wrist tattoo at some point in their life. And evidence shows that the wish for meaningful wrist tattoos existed in the past as well. 

Wrist tattoos are an endless piece of art used by everyone — from royal families and sailors to people from the gay community and celebrities. So what does that tell us? Are wrist tattoos amongst the most culturally accepted tattoos?

Maybe. Many centuries ago, tattoos on wrist were a token of good luck and a protector of negative energies. Yes, you heard it right. Wrist tattoos have been snatching bad vibes since ancient times. Goodbye witches, our black ink is stronger than your black magic! 

People also believed that a simple wrist tattoo had the power to prevent illnesses. To be quite frank with you guys, if we can resist the pain of a hundred needles entering our bodies per second, then we have enough strength to not surrender to an illness. 

Wrist tattoos were also common amongst sailors and seafarers. We don’t know what kind of tattoos they did, but they must’ve been something related to their lifestyles, like an anchor or a compass wrist tattoo. Nevertheless, they seemed to work, and sailors felt that it was due to their wrist tattoos that they were able to reach the shores safely. 

In the 1800s wrist tattoos took a royal turn in Europe, particularly in England. The mother of the former prime minister of the United Kingdom, Lady Randolph Churchill had a tattoo on her wrist. And not any kind of tattoo, but a snake wrist tattoo. 

Jennie Churchill was a lady ahead of her time, gutsy and daring enough to accomplish something that few ladies her age and social status would have done. The earliest newspaper report of Jennie’s snake wrist tattoo appeared on November 26, 1894 (as a correspondence piece given to numerous publications) in the San Francisco Call, and includes the following narrative:

“There are certain women of the world who capture public attention to the degree that everything they do is promptly chronicled. Lady Randolph Churchill is one of them. When returning home from India with Lord Randolph she noticed a British soldier tattooing a deckhand… She had the artist brought before her and asked him for some designs. He suggested the Talmudic symbol of eternity — a snake holding its tail in its mouth. Lady Randolph was charmed and bared her arm for the operation. Lord Randolph swore and protested. But the tattooing was done — so it is said, at least — and it is described as a beautifully executed snake, dark blue in color, with green eyes and red jaws. As a general thing it is hidden from the vulgar gaze by a broad gold bracelet, but her personal friends are privileged to see it and hear the story of the tattooing.”

Jennie’s snake wrist tattoo is thought to be the Ouroboros (or occasionally Uroborus). It is an ancient emblem representing a snake or dragon eating its tail. It is meant to signify infinity, as in something that is perpetually recreating itself. 

Whether it was her repeated marriages to younger men, her numerous relationships with powerful men, or her social and political ascension, it goes to show that Jennie Churchill was a master at recreating herself. Bravo, we have nothing but kind words for this bold lady. 

In the 1950s the members of the gay and lesbian community took a bold turn as well. Their symbol of choice? — A star. This wasn’t any kind of star tattoo on wrist, but a particular one called ‘nautical star.’ 

A nautical star was a typical practice among some lesbian groups. The good thing about these tattoos was the fact that they could be hidden by a watch. Still, these small wrist tattoos were a risky move when showcased on social occasions. 

Law enforcement was aware of the symbol’s significance. Hence, people of the gay and lesbian community were in danger of harassment and racism as a result of their distinguishing, yet meaningful wrist tattoos, but they decided it was worth it. Kudos to them!

Wrist tattoos now have a more superficial significance, and individuals ink this part of their bodies for sheer inspiration. One of the most popular wrist tattoo ideas urges ink enthusiasts to engrave profound words on their wrists. 

These cute wrist tattoos have the strength to offer us a message of empowerment when we are going through difficult circumstances. So, next time you feel moody — look at your wrist tattoo, it might turn your frown upside down!

Don’t you believe a cross tattoo on your wrist or a compelling message is a great method to express yourself? Celebrities certainly believe so. In fact, celebrities want to spread a message through their wrist tattoos to their fans. Does your favorite celebrity have a wrist tattoo? Take a look, you might see something meaningful. 

Wrist Tattoos — Pain Level 

Truth be told, no place is painless and each tattoo comes with a different level of pain. Still, we enjoy the experience because the pain makes the tattoo even more meaningful. 

Of course, tattooing will be considerably more painful in locations where the skin is much thinner. Still, many individuals claim that the wrist tattoo pain level is acceptable compared to other regions of the body, such as the tights. 

So, do wrist tattoos hurt? Actually, the inner wrist is indeed one of the least painful areas to have tattoos, however, the amount of intensity varies depending on the positioning. Whatever the case may be, it is highly dependent on people’s pain tolerance. Keep in mind that getting a tattoo on any region of your body can be uncomfortable, so take extra precautions.

Possible Downsides of Wrist Tattoos

A wrist tattoo, no matter how meaningful, comes with some pitfalls that you might not know of. That’s why we’re here to help and educate you on that matter. 

Watches, bracelets, and gloves will brush against your wrist regularly, gradually breaking down your meaningful wrist tattoo. At the end of the day, it’s just a joint, and you’re continually bending it, which causes the ink within the skin to break down. If you’re getting a wrist tattoo, make sure it’s below the lowest wrinkle line on your wrist to avoid a wrinkle line running directly through it. 

This goes to show that you can’t have very detailed tattoos on your wrist. Some details are for sure okay to have there, but because of its placement and movement in that area, the smaller, finer details are going to get lost. So, be careful of that if you want something tiny, yet detailed because it’s not going to maintain its ideal form forever. 

Wrist Tattoos For Women

The popularity of wrist tattoos, particularly among women, appears to be growing by the day. It is no longer frowned upon for a woman to have a tattoo. 

Wrist tattoos for women are frequently thought to enhance female individuality and beauty. Tiny wrist tattoos, for example, look nicer on a woman’s wrist. They’re typically seen to be attractive, followed by a hint of a rebel. Let’s take a look at the most popular feminine wrist tattoos.

Flower Wrist Tattoo

Flower Tattoo by nicole_inkart 

By nicole_inkart

Flowers — symbols of nature, beauty, and life. Flower wrist tattoos can do it all, you can either make them delicate or bold and vibrant. The option is yours. Plus, there are several blossoms to pick from, each carrying its beauty. 

Heart Tattoo on Wrist

Heart Wrist Tattoo by ginger.mermaid.tattoos

By ginger.mermaid.tattoos

Love, passion, heartache, and so much more are all intertwined with the heart. The connotation can also vary based on the colors used — for example, red is associated with romance, whereas black is associated with sadness or loss.

Bracelet Wrist Tattoo

Bracelet Wrist Tattoo by carrot.tattoo

By carrot.tattoo 

A wrist bracelet is extremely eye-catchy. With this tattoo, you don’t need any jewelry. Plus, you can play around with the details, and instead of picking something that looks like a bracelet, make something out of flowers, stars, planets, and other objects. 

Wrist Name Tattoo

Name Wrist Tattoo by mayoanj 

By mayoanj

A name is one of the most intimate ways to personalize a tattoo. They may be used to recognize significant persons in your life, such as a boyfriend, girlfriend, kid, or a loved one that passed away. 

Feather Wrist Tattoo

Feather Wrist Tattoo by leehumphs tattooer

By leehumphs tattooer

Birds can fly through the clouds — a skill that many of us wish we possessed. There’s something magical about being able to fly wherever you want, hence feathers are frequently connected with independence, strength, and exploration.

Butterfly Wrist Tattoo

Butterfly Wrist Tattoo by linesnshadestattoo_studio 

By linesnshadestattoo_studio

Butterflies will appeal to all the ladies going through a period of change. These animals are not only one of the most beautiful animals on the planet, but they also represent transition and freedom.

Wrist Tattoos For Men

Tattoos on the wrist have a variety of meanings, and because they are visible, your artwork must compliment your appearance. Wrist tattoos are also versatile because they can be hidden under clothing.

Here are the greatest options for males, whether you’re looking for a basic design or a basis for a sleeve. We hope these ideas will inspire your creativity and help you find something unique. 

Cross Tattoo on Wrist

 Cros Wrist Tattoo by agency_tattoo

By agency_tattoo

Cross tattoos are generally associated with religion and faith, and they are a wonderful way to express your faith. It can also signify Jesus Christ’s suffering for the welfare of humanity, and so be connected with boundless love and appreciation.

Rose Wrist Tattoo

Rose tattoo by studio.lana.mtl

By studio.lana.mtl

A rose tattoo is possibly the most beautiful of all the flowers you can tattoo. It’s a flower that’s connected with both beauty and agony — it’s beautiful to look at, yet its thorns may be dangerous.

Snake Wrist Tattoo

Snake Wrist Tattoo by mirkosata

By mirkosata

A snake — such a ferocious and powerful creature. Snake tattoos have many different meanings, but because they lose their skin, they are associated with rebirth and metamorphosis.

Tribal Wrist Tattoo

Tribal Tattoo by tracciatattoo 

By tracciatattoo

Tribal wrist tattoos are known for their distinctive design and shading. They are usually wrapped around the wrist to produce a stylish bracelet or wristband tattoo.

Roman Numerals Wrist Tattoo

roman numerals wrist by maxxie_art

By maxxie_art 

Tattoos using Roman numerals are extremely personal. Despite the very basic design, the various combinations contain a significant value, symbolizing key events throughout your life.

Conclusion: Meaningful Wrist Tattoos Are a Subtle Act of Boldness With a Huge History & Hidden Depth 

When your identity begins to dissolve in life, wrist tattoos should serve as a reminder of who you are. When we start to lose ourselves, tattoos on wrist are there to help us. They’re about remembering something so crucial that it needs to be etched into the flesh. 

There has never been a period when this location hasn’t been considered for a tattoo. Wrist tattoos were taken as a sign of good health as well as shields against dark magic. Furthermore, they aided seafarers in reaching shore safely and securely. Wrist tattoos allowed homosexual and lesbian groups to express themselves, and most importantly — it was a brave move by one of England’s most prominent aristocratic women. 

To sum up, the wrist is a highly visible place so you must take into consideration your lifestyle (where you work, social gatherings, family’s state of mind about tattoos, etc.) Either way, we say — go for it! You can always conceal your tattoo when things get stiff!