Polynesia hammerhead shark tattoo meaning. Shark tattoo meaning. What techniques depict a shark

Want to get a Shark tattoo, but don't know what a similar image on the body means? Then we will now tell you this information. As you know, a shark is a very predatory creature. Tattoos with his image are made by people who want to bring even more audacity and danger to their image.

Tattoo "Shark": the meaning of the image

Previously, such wearable drawings could only be seen in the West. Now they can be seen everywhere. Every year the popularity of the Shark tattoo is increasing.

Ancient people believed that such images have a protective power. That's why they respected sharks. The Japanese considered them messengers of the gods. And what did sharks mean for the inhabitants of the islands in the Pacific Ocean? They considered them a symbol of grace.

Sailors stuffed the "Shark" tattoo in order to show people that they are ready for anything on the high seas. We come to a small conclusion that earlier such an image was a kind of amulet for a person.

And what does the Shark tattoo mean today? The meaning of this image is not one, there are several. Firstly, such a drawing denotes fearlessness, power and cruelty. Secondly, purposefulness and love of freedom.

What else does a tattoo with such a pattern mean? The image of a shark is a symbol of intolerance to the restriction of one's personal freedom, perhaps even greed. Recently, such a pattern on the body has come to mean dominance (in gambling or business).

Very often, similar images on the body can be seen in those people whose professions are related to the sea (sailors, fishermen and some others).

Most of all, the Shark tattoo is suitable for self-confident people, stubborn. They always move forward, achieving their goal, have an unbending character.

This is what the shark tattoo means. Sketches of such underwear drawings are usually done in color. Although there are black drawings. Shark tattoos are stuffed on different parts of the body. Back, arm, leg, chest - all this can become a "canvas" for the master.

Such a tattoo will suit both an imperious man and a strong woman. On representatives of both sexes, such a pattern looks very good. Effectively the Shark tattoo looks both on the forearm, back, and on the back of the head. Such a predatory creature can be depicted in both realistic and original style. In this case, everything depends on your desire and imagination of the master.

Hammerhead shark: what does a tattoo mean?

Separately, I would like to highlight the tattoo with the image of a hammerhead shark. This is one of the most unusual creatures in the whole world. The image with him arouses curiosity and surprise. This fish has unique abilities. Some of them have not even been solved to this day. Since this creature is bloodthirsty and dangerous, it symbolizes greed and cunning.

A small conclusion

Now you know what the Shark tattoo means. The sketches of wearable images presented in the article may help you choose the right pattern for yourself. Good luck with your choice! And remember that tattoos last a lifetime unless removed, which is not a particularly pleasant procedure.

Sharks are very ancient animals, according to scientists they are more than 400 million years old, they are rightfully considered the most bloodthirsty predators in the water. The ability to feel prey for several kilometers, as well as cases when human blood lured sharks, became the basis for tales and myths about the bloodthirstiness of sharks, many films were made showing the cruelty of these animals, for example, "Jaws", perhaps after that it grew up popularity on tattoos with sharks, the meaning of which we will talk about today.

The main meanings of a shark tattoo

One of the most common shark tattoos I've had to do is the open mouth tattoo with the grin of a shark, the main meaning of which is fearlessness, bloodthirstiness, aggression. Mostly suitable for young people associated with the sea, or with dangerous work like a lifeguard.

Sharks are also known for their explosive speed, before attacking the victim, they are able to develop tremendous speed, so one of the meanings of a shark tattoo is a symbol of speed and agility, both girls and young people make such tattoos.

Nevertheless, the main meaning of a shark tattoo lies not in its skills, but in relation to it, for sure everyone knows an amulet or a charm with a shark tooth, this is not surprising, because it always seemed to a person that no one would dare to name a symbol of such a strong and merciless predator harm. It is not surprising that there are many who want to get a tattoo with a shark in the form of a talisman.

Where to get a shark tattoo

One of the most popular places to stuff a predator is on the shoulder, especially if you want to show a grin. an interesting idea, for me, it seems, to make a tattoo on the forearm, with a shark floating out from under the clothes, as it were.

The whole animal can be depicted on the back or shoulder blade, there is enough space even for a whale shark or a hammerhead shark.

The meaning of the shark tattoo in the zone

In places of detention, shark tattoos are made by aggressive, ruthless people, or those involved in the smuggling of marine animals.

The shark is one of the most dangerous and most ancient animals on Earth, so the shark tattoo is for the most daring and dangerous. According to archaeologists, sharks appeared in the oceans and seas of the planet forty million years ago, that is, this large marine fish outlived the dinosaurs. Sketches of a shark tattoo are usually done in color, and the drawing is applied to any part of the body: arm, shin, thigh, back, etc.

Nature created the shark from birth as an ideal predator, endowing it with such qualities as bloodthirstiness, power, cunning and speed. Not surprisingly, the usual human reaction to sharks is fear, interest, and even delight.

Usually this animal is associated with danger, ruthlessness, fearlessness, strength, deceit, unmotivated cruelty, as well as purposefulness, craving for freedom and self-confidence.

Tattoos depicting the largest shark (white) are most often found in the West, and they are also not uncommon in the territory of the former socialist camp. Recently, they can be seen almost everywhere, such sketches are quite popular. By the way, a tattoo can be done using a high-quality photo of this predator.

The ancient Polynesian tribes believed in the protective power of the symbol. The inhabitants of the Australian continent respected and revered sharks as the connecting force of the sea and land. The Indians of North and Central America believed that this sign would help in survival and hunting. The Japanese have always respectfully perceived these predators, considering them messengers of the gods, ready to help everyone who reveres them.

The inhabitants of the Pacific Islands were sure that sharks are a symbol of grace. European sailors of the Middle Ages applied such a tattoo, thereby showing their readiness for whatever happens on the high seas, as well as the desire to return home. Thus, most often in the past, such a tattoo played the role of a talisman.

The modern meaning of a shark tattoo is, first of all, power, fearlessness, cruelty, intolerance to the restriction of personal freedom and even greed, but relatively recently it has also become a symbol of dominance (usually in business or gambling).

A shark tattoo is often found in people whose profession is connected with the sea (for example, fishermen, sailors, sailors). Most of all, it suits stubborn, self-confident people who always go forward, achieving their goals by any means, and have an unbending character. The wearer of a shark tattoo seeks to amaze others, cause respect for himself, curiosity, instill some fear, and also considers himself a leader and wants to show it.

Since the shark is usually perceived as a feminine creature, a tattoo with it is also suitable for a strong woman. The image of a shark looks equally impressive on all parts of the body and is most often applied to the shoulder blades, biceps, neck, forearm, back, calves, both in a realistic style and in the form of original images. Be sure to ask your master to draw for you a unique shark tattoo sketch just for your personality.

shark tattoo video

Below are photos of shark tattoos in various styles and designs.

One of the most dangerous and most ancient marine life on the planet is the shark. Some people can find tattoos with this predatory fish. According to archaeological research, sharks have been living in the oceans and seas of our green planet for about forty million years, that is, this is a creature that even survived the era of dinosaurs.

Shark tattoo on the back - photo

Nature has made a first-class predator out of a shark, endowing this fish with incredible speed, strength, wit, power, and most importantly, bloodthirstiness. Meaning shark tattoos hides under itself the acquisition of rage and fearlessness, aggression and power, perseverance and courage, grace and self-confidence. But this is only in the general case, since for long centuries, referring to the culture of different peoples of the world, people revered the shark in their own way, explaining its completely multifaceted qualities and characteristics. Shark tattoo suits people who are persistent, self-confident and obstinate.

Shark and ship - male tattoo on the arm

Do not forget that the shark is used in speech in the feminine gender, because it can become a unique hallmark of a strong woman, and generate delight, fear and inquisitiveness among the environment. The meaning of the shark tattoo is also expressed in its purposefulness and love of freedom.

different meanings

In the branches of ancient Polynesian tattoos, the shark symbol was intended as a protection from enemies and predators. On the continent of Australia, sharks are treated with special reverence and respect, because for them the shark has taken on the image of connecting the power of the sea and the earth. And for the Indians of North and Central America, sharks served as a symbol of hunting and survival.

Shark tattoos are most often applied by people who often swim in the sea or spend most of their time in the sea: sailors, sailors, fishermen, etc. For sailors, this tattoo has become the ability to express the desire to be ready for anything that does not wait for them on a long journey, the thirst to return home to loved ones and the readiness to meet death at sea from hunger and sharks.

In the Middle Ages, this tattoo was related as a strong amulet in the sea. And the inhabitants of the Pacific islands for a long time bowed to the image of a shark as an almighty spirit of water and saw grace and majesty in it. The culture of Japan also treated the shark with respect, as a messenger of the sea gods, it was said that the shark helps everyone who harbors faith in it.

shark tattoo on calf

A separate meaning, tattoos with the image of a shark, was its use as a metaphor for the successful conduct of business, or incredible success in gambling. Since ancient times, the shark has carried the symbolism of power, superiority and dominance over a competitor.

Hammerhead shark

Of particular note is the hammerhead shark tattoo. This fish is one of the most extraordinary creatures of nature in the world. Drawing a hammerhead shark excites feelings of amazement, fear and a certain curiosity.

Hammerhead shark tattoo sketch on arm

This fish is endowed with unique abilities, some of which have not yet been guessed by scientists. She is bloodthirsty and dangerous, in addition to the above-mentioned meanings, the shark carries greed and cunning.

If you are a confident person, you are persistent and know what goals you will achieve, a shark tattoo is perfect for you. It is also suitable for those who want to awaken in others both feelings of fear and respect.

Brutal shark tattoo appeared many centuries ago. Today it is difficult to say exactly when this happened, and who became the first owner of such a pattern on the skin. However, time has not affected the level of popularity. Until now, such sketches have enjoyed considerable success. For some, a ferocious predator is an object of reverence, while someone considers it almost their totem.

From our review you will learn:

  • What does a shark mean in the tattoo world;
  • What styles are used by the masters to create it;
  • On what part of the body does a predatory fish look beautiful.

Bright tiger shark tattoo

There are many marine life in the world that cause fear. If people created a rating, then the shark would certainly enter the top 5, and in some countries even top it. These creatures lived during the time of the dinosaurs, and are likely to outlive human civilization.

There are many types of sharks in nature. Among them. and harmless to humans cetaceans. But those who go to are not interested in the 20-ton peace-loving giants, but in much more severe ones - the great white, tiger and hammer shark. In Japan, the polar shark is popular. This is a predator, whose length reaches 6 - 7 meters. There is still a legend that she is the messenger of the Gods. Old people who adhere to old beliefs turn to her with prayers.


great white shark tattoo

Tattoo of several hammerhead sharks on the leg

Tattoos with these predators are made by sailors, fishermen and whalers, and in the old days it was one of the most popular pirate-themed plots. Many desperate thugs and adventurers have fallen into the jaws of giant fish. Some of them even managed to survive.

People who regularly go to sea wore tattoos to protect themselves from accidents. Often, an anchor, a helm, and other elements related thematically to maritime affairs were depicted nearby.


Shark tattoo with rudder and marine theme elements

It is difficult to find a predator in the oceans that would be faster, stronger and more dangerous. Of course, there is also a killer whale, but it attacks people much less often. There has only been one case in the last few decades. Most likely, the killer whale simply confused the surfer with some kind of marine animal.


Many people are interested in the meaning of a shark tattoo. In order to understand it, you should understand the features of this predatory fish. It is worth paying tribute to her intelligence and cunning. The shark is not a mindless creature at all. She is able to outwit prey, lure her into a trap, etc. As for a fish, it is very smart and prudent, which allows it to ensure a high level of survival even in the most difficult conditions.

We are used to talking about the cruelty of marine predators. But it should be understood that this is an exclusively human concept. Humanism applies to toothy fish in much the same way as the concept of spawning to humans. The ruthlessness of the shark is a necessity due to nature.

Can a tattoo make a person more cruel and evil? Unmotivated malice, the shark's rage is driven by survival. The fish kills and eats its prey, because. she can't get a job, rent a hostel, and buy codfish for lunch. Therefore, to say that this is a crazy maniac is stupid. Having made a tattoo, a person will not behave in this way.

Do these creatures have qualities that can be called positive by human standards? Undoubtedly. This is perseverance, self-confidence. It is difficult to find a creature more purposeful than a hungry shark. She will rush forward, tear the nets, turn boats over to get what she came for. Sometimes a person lacks such penetrating power. At the same time, many associate sharks with cunning and ruthlessness. However, remembering the phrase "The end justifies the means" said by Machiavelli, one should not blame the fish trying to survive in the middle of the endless ocean.

Someone believes that the white shark symbolizes strength and power. Especially often sketches with her are ordered in the USA.


What does a shark mean for women? Interestingly, this is a shark, it is always feminine. She is often compared to women who are trying to snatch a piece at any cost. In business, ladies of this type are ready to go over their heads in order to succeed in life. However, business women do not often order such drawings from the master. However, the expressions “business sharks” or “pen sharks” are not tied to the gender of a particular person.

Traditional tattoos with a similar plot were made by fishermen and sailors on every inhabited continent. Many believe that Polynesia is the birthplace of classic tattoos of this kind. There are legends in these parts, according to which, such a symbol allows you to protect the owner from attacks. Moreover, not only predatory animals, but also hostile people. The tribes believe that every living being has a natural spirit that can be turned to for support. The Maori even have a belief that the shark combines the elemental forces of the earth and the deep sea. They respect the big toothy fish.


The inhabitants of the American continent made symbolic tattoos, considering them to be symbols of a hunter and a person who has to survive in extreme conditions.

The Pacific Islands are a unique reserve of ancient traditions. Even now, in the 21st century, there is a belief in the supernatural power of sharks. According to local residents, this is the spirit of the water element, great and powerful. It should be cajoled in various ways. The tattoo shows the respect of a person, his worship of a deity.

  • In the old days, many sailors believed that such a tattoo could serve as a talisman in swimming.
  • In some cultures, a shark, or a shark's tooth, is a symbol of power and power, control.
  • If we are talking about a predator with a head in the shape of a hammer, the meanings are as follows - curiosity, cunning, danger, surprise.
  • In Hawaii, the girls put the image of a shark on their ankles, as an amulet from a real attack while in the water.

Shark tooth tattoo for men and women

It is difficult for us to judge how effective such actions are, since there are no statistics confirming or refuting these beliefs of superstitious people.

Psychologists and experts in related fields believe that self-persuasion, programming one's own life, is an amazing, and still not fully understood topic. It is likely that there is some truth in the beliefs of the tribes. And it is connected with a collective belief in something.

Some people claim that a person who decides to get a tattoo with a similar image can get unprecedented luck in cards, roulette and other gambling. By setting yourself up for victory, you can influence your own destiny.


Traditionally, the review of tattoos considers what they mean for the inhabitants of places of detention. If we analyze separately the value in the zone, then we can find out that such tattoos were made to smugglers, bribe-takers, people convicted of some crimes committed at sea. The image does not have any offensive - negative meaning.

Many believe that by making such a tattoo, you can get some vital incentive, become more assertive and purposeful. Therefore, you can often see tattoos of this kind in people involved in sports, young businessmen.

Symbolism often depends on how the shark is depicted:

  • floating calmly;
  • Threateningly opened mouth;
  • Forward.

Shark tattoo with open mouth and sharp teeth

Sometimes this can mean a defensive reaction. It's the same as the sign "Beware of the angry dog" on the door to someone's yard. Not every person will dare to check if there is a dog behind the gate, and how aggressive he is towards strangers.

It should also be understood that people attach special importance to any drawing. It makes sense only for themselves, even if it was chosen from the catalog in the salon.

Choosing a tattoo style and sketch

Men prefer aggressively brutal old school. Detailing and realism are lame, but it looks impressive. The size of the image can be from small - 3 - 5 cm in length, and larger. Tattoos look good in the original ornament style. By design, this is ethnicity. There are a lot of variations. Sometimes men order tribal tattoos, on which the shark is depicted using patterned elements. Most often, such images are made on the hand. Minimalist sketches look good on the neck, wrist. They are effective, but at the same time as concise as possible.


Today there is no one direction in tattooing that would dominate over all the others. Fashion trends appear, but they are temporary trends. Therefore, when making a choice, be guided by your own tastes. Also, make sure the particular sketch suits you.

A marine classic - a shark with an anchor came to us from the fleet. Most clients prefer to portray him in the same style as a hundred years ago.


In fact, there is no strict restriction in styles and performance techniques, but there are more and less popular options. However, a lot has changed over time. If earlier young people preferred traditional and old-school sharks with wide-toothed mouths, now they can easily order minimalism in the salon, or even a cartoon-caricature version.

Girls like unusual drawings. It might even be a shark with wings. The meaning of such a non-standard image is strength and freedom.



Oriental style lovers can pay attention to such a direction as oriental. This direction was created by the Japanese, and to this day enjoys considerable popularity. It is figurative and metaphorical. Each animal, fish, bird, symbolizes certain properties, qualities. And, not always what you might think initially.

If you like bright colors, then pay attention not to the style of watercolor tattoos. Your body turns into a canvas, and the tattoo machine into an artist's brush. He depicts quite realistic contours, and then a riot of colors. But this is not surrealism, or abstraction. The watercolor technique is distinguished precisely by the simulation of the use of real paint. To do this, the drawings depict streaks of paint.


As for the different options for the image, they can be found in thousands, or even tens of thousands. on some, the shark jumps out of the water, on others it bites its own tail, and still others demonstrate how it gnaws at the boat.

There are also tattoos with local meaning. For example, if you are a fan of the San Jose Sharks hockey team (San Jose Sharks), then the sketches will be made in the form of the official symbols of the club. Colors are black, blue and white.

Often divers become owners of tattoos with a toothy sea monster. It's not just that the shape of the fish resembles a submarine. The Russian submarine fleet is armed with Akula-class nuclear submarines. This is a formidable weapon that can very quickly get to the point from which you can strike at almost any country in the world.


Shark tattoo with diver

Drawing areas

Where would a shark tattoo look best? There are many options, and the choice depends on the size of the picture and whether you want it to be visible from under your clothes all the time.


Men and women have different application areas. If a guy can get a tattoo on his chest, then for a girl this option is much less appropriate.


shark tattoo on chest

It is believed that the classic male options are a shark on the arm, shoulder, forearm. For larger pictures, use the back, or side. However, a tattoo on the back will look spectacular on a girl. A fairly large pattern can be placed on the leg. It suits both men and women.

Some drawings are purely decorative, others refer to some national traditions and beliefs of the peoples of the world, and still others refer to sea legends from the times when pirates ruled the seas.


If you have the idea to go to the tattoo artist to get yourself a beautiful tattoo with a shark, choose a design that would look good on you. If this is not the first tattoo, then you should think about the compatibility of styles and harmonious composition on your skin.