Anchor tattoo. The meaning of an anchor tattoo Anchor tattoo on a girl’s leg

The history of the anchor tattoo goes back a long way. Since ancient times, symbolism of this kind had a very narrow definition - the design was applied exclusively by people belonging to professions related to maritime affairs. It is quite difficult to say exactly what an anchor tattoo means nowadays, since the image has lost its original interpretation. Now the symbol can be used without meaning, or it can characterize the owner as a balanced and calm person, not prone to adventures and innovations. However, first things first.

History of the symbol

For several centuries, a tattoo in the form of an anchor has been used as an indicator of a person’s belonging to a certain profession. This image symbolized stability, reliability, success and good luck. It was worn by sailors as a talisman, a kind of talisman that helped on difficult sea voyages, protected on the way to home, and protected from all kinds of troubles and misfortunes.

However, this is not the only interpretation of an anchor tattoo; the meaning can also be of a different nature, for example:

• In the Middle Ages, the anchor, due to its shape resembling a cross, was also some personification of a person’s belonging to the religion of Christianity. However, this interpretation was not widespread and was soon almost completely forgotten.
• In Ancient Egypt, the image of two anchors was often used. This design symbolized the union of masculine and feminine principles and was the personification of vitality and procreation.
• In Europe, the meaning of an anchor tattoo is defined very narrowly - it was applied exclusively by sailors, for whom the design was not only a talisman, but also a symbol of stability, remarkable strength and fearlessness.

Meaning for men

An anchor tattoo on a man’s arm in the modern world does not at all mean that the person belongs to those involved in the maritime professions. Now such a drawing displays some character traits of its owner, symbolizes his certain life positions and goals. The most common interpretations of the symbol include the following:

• Stability and persistent character. Even in the most severe bad weather and storm, the anchor keeps the ship in place. This symbol is often interpreted as the personification of an unshakable and proud character, the pursuit of a specific goal, the path to which is blocked by all sorts of troubles.
• Excerpt. An anchor tattoo is often applied to those who have experienced a series of adversities, overcome misfortunes, and achieved some success thanks to strong-willed qualities and perseverance.
• An anchor tattoo on the wrist often symbolizes devotion to a loved one. This design is usually applied by lovers who, for example, are separated by distance. The anchor in this case is a demonstration of fidelity.
• A tattoo of an anchor and a steering wheel usually indicates that a man occupies a leadership position. Previously, such images were applied exclusively by persons belonging to the ranks of captains, but now even the manager of a construction company can make such a design. The helm in this case is interpreted unambiguously - the need to lead.

Meaning for women

An anchor tattoo for girls usually carries a certain meaning. Most often, this is an indicator of devotion and fidelity to a loved one, or a favorite activity. Often this is a kind of reflection of a strong character and “masculine” character. In general, the meaning of anchor tattoos for girls is characterized depending on the presence of additional elements, for example:

• As mentioned above, anchor tattoos for girls most often carry a certain meaning depending on their combination with any other details. For example, the intertwining of images of a dolphin and an anchor means courage, bravery and persistent character, or an all-consuming love of speed and adrenaline.
• The meaning of an anchor tattoo with roses signifies a willingness to sacrifice a lot for the sake of love and a loved one. This interpretation is closely connected with the crucifixion of Christ, and originates precisely from the origins of the Orthodox faith.
• An anchor tattoo is usually applied with flowers or ribbon to imprint the name of loved ones on the petals. Such a picture does not carry a specific meaning, being only a kind of information carrier.
• To the question: what does an anchor tattoo mean for a girl on the parts of the case that are accessible to everyone, you can also answer in a different way. Often the anchor is depicted in order to emphasize the owner’s affiliation with active water sports, such as surfing, or, most often, diving.

Stylistics of the image

When determining the meaning of an anchor tattoo, it is also important what style the drawing is made in. Most often, such pictures are drawn in accordance with the following stylistic directions:

• • Old school. This is one of the oldest styles in the history of tattoos; most often it is used to apply images designed to subtly hint at the professional affiliation of the owner. Even an almost invisible small anchor tattoo made using this technique indicates that the person belongs to the maritime industry.

• Traditional This stylistic direction has common features with the one described above. Most often, following this style, they apply, for example, an anchor tattoo on a finger, hand or wrist.
• Minimalism. This style is most often used by lovers who do not want to get voluminous tattoos, but want to display and perpetuate their feelings in this way. Minimalism is characterized by small sizes, laconic design and the most limited range of colors. An anchor tattoo on the face or open areas of the body is most often performed in compliance with the traditions of minimalism.

Where is the best place to get a tattoo?

The image of an anchor is quite universal; it can be either voluminous, complemented by many elements, or minimal, made with only a few lines. Thanks to this, you can wear an anchor tattoo on the neck, face, or other parts of the body that are accessible to prying eyes. As a rule, currently the location of the tattoo does not have a specific meaning. However, several decades ago, people involved in maritime professions most often got anchor tattoos on their legs or arms.

When I see an anchor tattoo on a person’s body, I see his character in full view. The meaning of this symbol is safety, reliability, loyalty to principles and a high degree of responsibility. I immediately understand that you can rely on him, he will never betray or set you up at a difficult moment. Details in the article below.

In different cultures and religions, the anchor symbolizes something different. This tattoo has various meanings according to sources.

For example:

1. In the Christian religion, the anchor is associated with the image of the crucifixion, symbolizing the atonement of sins through suffering. In ancient times it was used as a distinctive sign of Christian communities living in the coastal area.
2. Sailors depicted an anchor as a sign of their homesickness and desire to return home as soon as possible from their travels. It is also a symbol of love for the sea, which is stronger than all other affections.
3. If an anchor is depicted in a composition with a dead fish, the tattoo means that the person is keeping some kind of secret within himself, he has a serious “skeleton in the closet” that he hides from everyone.
4. The anchor can be depicted along with the name of the other half. Such a tattoo will become a sign that you are faithful to your partner and devoted to him. If you want to spend your whole life together, you love and do not notice all other representatives of the opposite sex.
5. The anchor was applied to the body by sailors to protect themselves from dangers on sea voyages. It was believed that this sign is a talisman that guarantees return home and protects against sudden death while traveling.
6. The anchor also symbolizes stability. Despite the turbulent whirlpool of events in life, a person stands firmly on the ground and looks to the future with hope.
7. In some sources, an anchor is a symbol of security, as well as a sign that a person has certain obligations that he must fulfill throughout his life.

In most cases, the meaning of such a tattoo is positive. But there are also exceptions. For example, a broken anchor indicates that a person is in hopelessness, he is consumed by problems and life’s difficulties, and is unable to recover from a severe shock.

The meaning of tattoos for girls

Most girls are romantic in nature, so in their case the meaning of a tattoo takes on its own, special meaning.

What can an anchor on the body of a representative of the weaker half of humanity tell us:

1. It means that the girl is a reliable person. You can rely on her in difficult times. She values ​​friendship and relationships and always keeps her promises. Ready to lend a shoulder in a difficult situation.
2. She is also very consistent. Appreciates what close people do for her. He will never break off a relationship, succumbing to emotions, but will first try to discuss the problem and agree on a compromise that will suit both parties. Most likely, she is monogamous and prefers long and stable relationships to light affairs.
3. In the case of women, the anchor is also a symbol of eternity, the inviolability of principles. With such a tattoo, she will remain true to her ideals and will never deviate from her opinion, view of things, people and circumstances.

In general, an anchor is the antipode of frivolity, frivolity and changeability. If you are a girl and want to get such a tattoo, you can persuade your boyfriend to do the same. In this case, the anchor will symbolize serious intentions in your relationship and will become a kind of guarantee that you can always rely on each other.

Meaning for guys

An anchor on a man’s body can be seen most often on the wrists, shoulders, back or forearms. The meaning is different from female.

For example, this symbol could mean:

1. Belonging to a maritime profession or simply a love of the sea. Perhaps a man loves traveling and always relaxes where there is water - the ocean or sea. He is adventurous, but knows how to keep his mind sober in difficult situations.
2. An anchor can also have mystical meaning. It is like a talisman, protecting its owner from dangers and adversities. Can help find solutions even in the most difficult situations.
3. Sometimes an anchor means that a man has decided and met the woman with whom he wants to spend the rest of his life. This is a symbol of a quiet haven, a cozy home, to which you want to return again and again. Such a man is capable of performing a real feat for the sake of his beloved and family, if necessary.
4. If an anchor is depicted on a long chain, it is a symbol of some serious duty or responsibility. A man considers himself obligated to someone or something. This can also have a favorable meaning: for example, he serves and repays his debt to the Motherland. Or he is engaged in a business that involves enormous responsibility to other people.
5. The character of a man with a similar sign on his body has a distinctive feature - fidelity. He never betrays himself, is faithful to his convictions, his wife, and his principles. Whole and strong nature.
6. It is better if a man gets such a tattoo already in adulthood, when he clearly understands what he wants from life.

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Initially, the anchor tattoo was associated with people connected in one way or another with the sea: sailors, fishermen, and marines. But over time, the attitude towards this tattoo has changed, and now it can be seen on the bodies of girls and boys who have nothing to do with marine themes.

Of course, one of the main signs of such demand is the design of the anchor. This is one of the few images that fits perfectly into any size, color and location.

The second factor that determines the popularity of an anchor tattoo is its meaning, which is much deeper than it might seem at first glance.

The anchor itself appeared 2500 years ago, and is one of the first objects whose image was transferred to the human body.

Meaning of anchor tattoo

There are several interpretations of this image. All of them are full of philosophical thought and can become a real support in the most difficult times.

So, what does an anchor tattoo mean?

1. Power and stability - an anchor is what keeps a ship or boat in one place even in the worst weather. Therefore, the image of an anchor often symbolizes the morale and willpower necessary for a person to overcome even the most difficult trials in life.
2. Strength and endurance - the anchor holds the ship even in the most severe storm. The anchor tattoo is associated with a person’s unique ability to endure everything for the sake of his goal, to endure all adversities, no matter how severe they may be.
3. Faith and devotion - this meaning goes beyond the design of the anchor. There is most likely a spiritual and emotional component here. Because an anchor holds a ship in place despite currents and bad weather conditions, an anchor tattoo often symbolizes devotion to the person you love. In these cases, the name of the lover or beloved is added to the tattoo.
4. The union of two principles - the ancient Egyptians believed that the anchor is a symbol of the union of male and female natures. Its lower part is feminine, its upper part is masculine. Therefore, another meaning of the anchor tattoo follows from this - life, which is quite logical when the male and female halves merge.

Anchor tattoo design

An anchor tattoo can be done in a variety of styles. It is very common to see a Celtic or tribal style anchor. This design is laconic and does not allow the presence of additional elements.

However, simple images can be supplemented with other components, such as flowers, rope or a heart.

1. Anchor and heart is one of the most popular images for lovers. This tattoo is associated with love and devotion.
2. Anchor and rose - love, honor and selfless sacrifice. According to legend, roses grew on the spot where Jesus Christ, a man who sacrificed himself for the atonement of human sins, was crucified. And the anchor itself is one of the symbols of Christ according to the Bible.
3. An anchor and a rope (chain) are a distinctive feature of a docker, usually done by people associated with work at sea.
4. Anchor and cross - this combination is also close to Christ and is often called the “cross of hope.”

Today, anchor tattoos can be seen on any part of the body. Due to its compactness and brevity, this image can even be placed on your finger. This is exactly what some young couples do when exchanging vows of fidelity. Instead of wedding rings, they get tattoos on their ring fingers.

Girls can be advised to choose the following places for a tattoo: wrist, collarbone, shoulder blade, lower abdomen, neck.

Guys choose more traditional places: shoulder, arm, rib and back.

There are many motifs in tattoo art that have a rich history and deep symbolism. One of them is a sea anchor. These attributes appeared back in the times of the Sumerians (2000 - 2500 BC), so they are one of the oldest motifs in body art. And the reasons for this are clear: such a tattoo not only looks beautiful and impressive on the body, but also carries a number of symbolic meanings. In the article we will look at what an anchor tattoo means, and also consider female and male sketches and photos of finished works.

History of the symbol

In the 16th century, when the British navy defeated the Spanish, the English began using the anchor as a symbol to identify naval soldiers. Later, anchor tattoos became very popular among ordinary sailors. Brave men who crossed the dangerous Atlantic Ocean got tattoos to show off their achievements. Today, many people choose this motif to convey their love for the sea.

Anchor tattoo - meaning

An anchor tattoo is an ideal body decoration for people who want to express their love for the water element. Also, a tattoo is an excellent choice for those who constantly travel or work away from home.

An anchor provides stability to a ship in the water, so a tattoo with this motif can symbolize strength and security.

An anchor tattoo has a meaning that can be interpreted in different ways, depending on the style of execution and the presence of complementary elements. As a rule, it means:

• honor;
• protection;
• the rescue;
• tolerance;
• safety;
• enlightenment;
• hope and faith;
• strength and stability;
• family values;
• love for the seas and oceans.

Although tattoos are most often associated with the sea, they can also be interpreted in a religious context. Today there are more than 2 billion Christians in the world, but previously there were much fewer people of this faith, and, moreover, they were persecuted for their beliefs. Christians wanted to avoid persecution, so they began to use the symbol of an anchor instead of a cross to show their religious affiliation. Thus, this ship's attribute became an important religious symbol, representing hope, confidence and salvation.

Anchor tattoo in various combinations and their meaning

Often male and female tattoos are depicted together with additional elements: hearts, flowers, ropes, crosses. This is done to clarify what a particular tattoo actually means. Let's look at some combinations in more detail.

Anchor in combination with Rose - love, honor, fidelity.

Roses are a symbol of the Greek goddess Aphrodite (she is often depicted with a headdress of roses), so this combination can be used to demonstrate love and beauty. However, in a religious context, the tattoo can represent the sacrifice of Christ. This motive is mainly common among girls.

Anchor combined with heart: love, compassion, strong relationships.

The heart, in combination with the main element, signifies a strong love relationship, as well as stability and security in your personal life.

Anchor combined with rope or chain: love of the sea, hope.

Men often use an image of an anchor in combination with a rope or chain as a tattoo. As a rule, such a pattern symbolizes love for the sea.

The meaning of a tattoo on the zone

The anchor image does not have any negative values. In general, a tattoo on a criminal’s body denotes a kind of burden in the form of the sentence he is serving and hope for a bright future. A person with such a tattoo is distinguished by strong character and willpower.

Anchor tattoo designs

This symbol looks great in any execution: from realism to trash polka, so there are no restrictions in the execution of this motif. If you want to put a beautiful anchor on your body as a talisman, the minimalist style is perfect. The romantic meaning successfully conveys the old school direction. The drawing, made in a realistic form, reflects a deeper meaning.

For girls

Girls choose more feminine designs, which are applied to the wrist, collarbone or ankle. Women's drawings are distinguished by the presence of bright colors, minimalism and small size. The photo below shows original ideas for women.

For guys

Guys choose larger sketches, which are placed on the arm, leg or chest. Mostly tattoos are depicted in the style of old school, realism, and watercolor.

Doubles

This symbol is widely used as couple tattoos for lovers, as it denotes a strong and stable relationship. Often the sign is applied to the ring fingers, wrists or forearms. These places are open to others and allow the most successful way to convey the beauty and deep meaning of the tattoo.

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Anchor Tattoo Sketches

As you might have guessed, the meaning of an anchor tattoo goes back to the nautical theme.
The meaning of an anchor tattoo is success, stability, hope.

Tattoos with this symbol should protect sailors during a long voyage to help them return home safe and sound.

Many of those who wear an anchor tattoo put a slightly different meaning into it.
In their case, the anchor means home. This is a place where you can always return. Therefore, such tattoos can be found not only between owners of marine specialists, but also among ordinary people.

In addition, the shape of the anchor resembles a cross.
In this regard, this symbol can have a religious meaning.

Anchor is primarily for those who are connected with the sea, such as sailors, travelers, residents of coastal cities and countries.
But this story can also have a symbolic meaning and symbolizes home, safety and the universe.
The anchor is often used in the national symbols of many coastal countries.

The anchor tattoo is ideal for people who love water and swimming, or are looking beyond the sea of ​​life.

The meaning of the anchor tattoo goes back several thousand years.
It has maintained its popularity from the very first pirates to our Marines and the US Coast Guard.
It was adopted as a symbol of the love of the sea by thousands of sailors and pirates.
In general, the meaning of an anchor tattoo is hope, safety, salvation, strength and caution, luck and fidelity, stability and confidence.

The meaning of symbols in different cultures

During the Renaissance, the art of the anchor was often depicted together with dolphins, as two opposites: the Dolphin is a symbol of speed and playfulness, and the anchor is of inhibition and action.
Additionally, the anchor can be an artistic tribute to some of the sea creatures or deities.

The top of the anchor often resembles a cross, so it has some connection with the Christian religion.

The anchor was one of the first symbolic signs of the early Christians, and was often depicted on tombstones in the catacombs. And first of all, it symbolized the hope for the salvation of Christians.

The image of an anchor is already present in the writings of the Apostle Paul to the Hebrews. Later, the anchor, as a symbol of safety, became the emblem of St. Nicholas.

The anchor in Egyptian art is represented as a symbol of the Universe, or the intersection of the Union of male and female.

In many countries, especially in the Mediterranean, the anchor was associated with images of sea deities:

1. Neptune – Roman God of the sea (Poseidon in Greece);
2. Amphitrite – Greek goddess who protects sailors and creates dolphins;
3. Triton is a mythological creature, half man and half fish;
4. Varuna is the Indian God of the Sea, who, according to tradition, took people who died at sea under his wing.

So, what does an anchor tattoo mean?

Strength and Stability – An anchor is what holds a ship or boat in one place, even in bad weather.

Therefore, the image of an anchor often symbolizes spirit and willpower;

Strength and endurance - the anchor holds the ship, even in the strongest storm.
The anchor tattoo is associated with a person's unique ability to endure everything in order to withstand all adversity;

Faith and devotion - this meaning goes beyond the design of the anchor.
An anchor holds the ship in place despite bad weather conditions, an anchor tattoo often symbolizes devotion to the person you love;

A combination of two principles - the ancient Egyptians believed that the anchor was a symbol of the union of male and female characters.
Its lower part is feminine, its upper part is male.

Therefore, another meaning of the anchor tattoo follows - this is life.

Girls can choose the following places for tattoos:

Wrist;

Underbelly;

Boys choose more traditional places:

Ribs;

Which style is better to get a tattoo?

An anchor tattoo can be done in a variety of styles.

It is very common to see a Celtic anchor or a simple tribal style anchor.

This design is concise and avoids the presence of additional elements.

However, other components such as flowers, rope or a heart can be added to a simple image.

Popular tattoo options

Anchor and heart are one of the most popular images for lovers.

The Anchor and Rose symbolize love, honor and selfless sacrifice.

Anchors and rope (chains) - produced, as a rule, by people associated with work at sea.

The anchor and the cross are a combination of closeness to Christ and are often called the “cross of hope.”

Today, you can see anchor tattoos anywhere on the body of both women and men.

Due to its compactness and brevity, this image can even be placed on your finger. That's what some new couples do when they exchange vows. Instead of wedding rings, they get a small tattoo on their ring finger.

If we look at any photograph or sketch, we see that the image of the anchor is always done in different styles.

It can be an anchor, without unnecessary elements, or a combination, Dolphin,

with ropes,

with abstract patterns.