different bird meanings tattoos

THE SYMBOLISM BEHIND POLYNESIAN TATTOOS

Many have asked how to read and understand the meaning of a Polynesian tattoo, and the answer is always the same: it’s not entirely possible. Almost.

If you examine the two tattoos above, it’s clear they carry distinct meanings and purposes. The one on the left is clearly linked to femininity, while the one on the right is likely related to warrior symbolism.

Each symbol in a Polynesian tattoo can carry multiple meanings, and how these symbols are used in conjunction with each other gives rise to different interpretations and stories. For instance, the enata symbol represents a person—it could refer to a father in one tattoo, a friend in another, or the wearer of the tattoo themselves. The tiki symbolizes protection, often representing a divinity or a revered ancestor. The ipu is a symbol of fertility, but it can also represent good winds or ancestors, particularly if mirrored in the design.

The story behind each tattoo is just as important as the symbols themselves. The true meaning of a tattoo can only be understood within the context of the entire design and its specific narrative. The only people who know the exact meaning of each symbol in a Polynesian tattoo are the tattoo artist and the person wearing it, which adds to the personal nature of these tattoos. Even though the tattoos are visible to all, their stories remain private.

Larger symbols in a tattoo often represent the most significant themes, while smaller symbols contribute details to the overall narrative. The placement and size of these elements can provide insights into the tattoo’s general meaning, but without knowing the full story, it’s difficult to interpret the tattoo’s deeper significance.

Let’s take a closer look at a tattoo example to understand how this works.

Looking at the design, the central element is the tiki, which represents a divinity or an ancestor. This tiki is enclosed within the shape of a mere, a war club and symbol of chiefly status, emphasizing themes of strength and leadership.

Upon closer examination, we can identify several secondary elements in the tattoo:

  • All-seeing eye (protection)
  • Fish hook (prosperity)
  • Chasing birds (support for loved ones)
  • Path of Kamehameha (challenging journey)
  • Spearheads (warrior, strength)
  • Stepping stones (achievements, lessons)
  • Adze (skills, hard work)
  • Enata (man)
  • Shark teeth (adaptability, protection)
  • Sun (success, joy)
  • Waves (change)
  • Mountains (stability)

Based on these symbols, we can interpret that the tattoo emphasizes protection, especially through the tiki and the all-seeing eye, and the chasing birds symbolizing support for loved ones. It also signifies overcoming challenges, with the spearheads and the path of Kamehameha representing bravery and determination. The presence of the adze and spearheads suggests the importance of skill and hard work in reaching success, which is symbolized by the sun at the end of the path. The mere suggests a link to status and respect, while the fish hook signifies prosperity.

However, we cannot fully grasp the meaning of the tattoo without understanding its deeper story. So, let’s look at the narrative behind the design: this tattoo serves as a memorial for a father, symbolized by the tiki. The father was a respected and strong figure (represented by the mere-like shape), who imparted his wisdom and teachings to his son (the stepping stones at the base). The son is meant to take his place at the head, as seen with the tiki holding the enata (man) within the sun, symbolizing success. The mere was passed down through generations, a legacy of strength and leadership.

The father, depicted as a solid figure (the mountains), supported his son (the chasing birds), helping him prosper (the fish hook) by teaching him the skills necessary (adze and spearheads) to face life’s challenges (the path of Kamehameha). Ultimately, the father prepares his son for leadership, signified by the sun, after his passing, represented by the waves moving away from the son toward the tiki, the deified ancestor.

With this backstory, every element of the tattoo falls into place, and its true meaning emerges.

While we can understand the general themes of the tattoo—family, protection, prosperity, and strength—it’s impossible to fully decode its story without knowing the personal narrative behind it. Polynesian tattoos, like all visual art from the culture, serve as a medium for storytelling, whether it’s a personal history or a broader historical tale passed down orally. These tattoos are not just decorative; they carry profound meaning tied to the individual and their journey.

Both the story and the design are equally important. Understanding one without the other is incomplete, as the person wearing the tattoo is the only one who truly knows its meaning and the mana it holds. A tattoo’s power is fully realized when it resonates with the wearer’s life story, and when that connection is made, the possibilities are limitless.




23 GORGEOUS RIB TATTOOS FOR WOMEN AND THEIR MEANINGS

It’s no wonder rib tattoos are becoming increasingly popular. For those seeking a more discreet tattoo, the rib area is ideal—it’s easily hidden unless you’re in a swimsuit. This makes the rib cage the perfect canvas to unleash your creativity and go bold.

Additionally, rib tattoos enhance the body’s natural silhouette. A design placed along the side can sit beautifully against the bones, while a tattoo that stretches from the back to the front can accentuate the waistline.

Ultimately, the perfect tattoo is a combination of three key elements: the design, the meaning, and the placement. When these come together, the result is a stunning and timeless piece of art.

In this post, you’ll discover a curated collection of rib tattoos for women that meet all these standards. If you’re in search of ink that will leave a lasting impression, keep reading!

Flower rib tattoos for women

Flowers are a popular choice in feminine tattoos, often symbolizing beauty, positivity, and life. However, the meaning can differ depending on the specific flower.

For a delicate and feminine tattoo on the rib cage, flowers are an excellent choice. You can customize the design to follow the contours of your bones, allowing for a natural flow. Whether large or small, floral tattoos are equally stunning, offering endless possibilities for creativity. Below, you’ll find a collection of beautiful flower rib tattoos for women. Keep scrolling to discover the perfect design for your next ink!

CHERRY BLOSSOM RIB TATTOO

Cherry blossoms are an excellent tattoo choice for women, thanks to both their symbolism and aesthetic appeal.

These delicate flowers bloom briefly, making them a symbol of life’s fleeting nature and a reminder to live each moment to its fullest. Visually, cherry blossoms are small and graceful, yet when they bloom in clusters, they create a stunning display of pink beauty, making them irresistibly charming.

RED FLOWER TATTOO

Despite their deeper meaning, red spider lily tattoos can serve as the perfect motif to express your personality. Their unique shape and striking appearance make them a standout design, offering a bold and memorable way to showcase individuality. Whether for their symbolism or aesthetic appeal, they make a powerful statement.

MINIMALIST FLOWER OUTLINE RIB TATTOO

Outline tattoos are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity over complexity. A small flower rib tattoo like this may not be bold or flashy, but it’s the understated elegance that makes it timeless. Its clean lines and minimalist design ensure it remains a classic, offering subtle beauty that lasts.

SMALL GIRLY FLOWER TATTOO

The skin on the rib cage is quite thin, so if you’re sensitive to pain, opting for a smaller tattoo might be a better choice.

However, small doesn’t have to mean simple. This tiny flower tattoo proves that—it’s packed with intricate details, a realistic portrayal of the flowers’ anatomy, vibrant colors, and thoughtful shading. When all these elements come together, even a small tattoo can be absolutely stunning.

ABSTRACT BLACK FLOWER RIB TATTOO

In nature, flowers are rarely black, which is why I never imagined they could look so striking in black and grey.

A radiologist once examined flowers under an x-ray, and though the images were black and white, every intricate detail was brought to the forefront.

This lily tattoo is inspired by that experiment, offering a perfect blend of simplicity and finely crafted details. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate minimalist art with just the right amount of depth.

RED SPIDER LILY RIB TATTOO

Unlike most flowers, the red spider lily carries a darker symbolism. It represents themes of death and reincarnation, making it a powerful choice for those who have a deep understanding of life and its cycles. A red spider lily tattoo is a meaningful and introspective design, perfect for someone who embraces these profound concepts.

SMALL BLACK ROSE RIB TATTOO

Roses are generally symbols of beauty and passion, but their meaning can change depending on their color. A black rose, for instance, is a clever choice. With its lack of color, it leaves more room for interpretation, sparking curiosity and allowing others to form their own meanings.

BLUE ROSE RIB TATTOO

While most roses are pink and red, blue roses are quite rare, making them a unique and striking choice. Beyond their meaning, this tattoo encompasses everything you’d want in body art: intricate details, flawless coloring, shading, and texture. If you’re a sweet girl with an edgy side, this blue rose tattoo is the perfect way to showcase both your gentleness and boldness.

SIMPLE ROSES OUTLINE RIB TATTOO

While most fine line tattoos are typically done in black, they can also feature vibrant colors. For instance, this rib tattoo incorporates pink, red, purple, and green, which could symbolize the various possibilities in life or different facets of the wearer’s personality. The placement along the rib cage also beautifully complements the body’s natural shape, enhancing the overall design.

DELPHINNIUM RIB TATTOO FOR WOMEN

In the language of flowers, delphinium symbolizes joy and encouragement. It is often used to honor the memory of someone who has passed away. Additionally, as the birth flower of July, it holds special significance for those born in that month, making it a meaningful and personal tattoo choice.

Small and simple rib tattoos for women

The rib cage can be a tricky area to tattoo. The bony structure and the angles of the bones make it challenging to place long, straight lines effectively.

That’s why opting for a smaller tattoo is often more ideal. It’s easier to execute, and once you find a meaningful design, the size becomes less important. Below, you’ll find a collection of stunning small rib tattoos for women. Keep scrolling to discover more!

DEVINE ONE-WORD TATTOO

Want to keep it simple? Choose a word that represents your values and who you are. For example, the one-word tattoo “divine” speaks volumes about the wearer’s personality and how she sees herself. It’s not just personal but also empowering, serving as a constant reminder of self-worth and strength.

MOON AND RABBIT RIB TATTOO

In Chinese folklore, the jade rabbit lives on the moon, serving as the companion to the moon goddess. When combined with these two elements in a tattoo, it evokes the tale beautifully.

However, even if you’re not familiar with the story, this small rabbit tattoo remains undeniably cute and girly, making it a charming and whimsical design on its own.

HELPING HAND

A helping hand can make all the difference during tough times, as symbolized in this small rib tattoo. The red thread signifies the strong bond between two people, adding depth and emphasis to the design. Together, the tattoo advocates for mental health, kindness, and the power of friendship, offering a meaningful message of support and connection.

BLOSSOMING RIB TATTOO FORR WOMEN

Every flower begins as a small bud, and this rib tattoo beautifully captures the growth of a flower in four stages. It serves as a reminder that life is a journey, and it’s perfectly okay to start as a beginner. Each stage of growth reflects progress, patience, and the beauty of personal development.

BLACK FISH RIB TATTOO

Fish symbolize wealth, wisdom, and freedom, and a fish tattoo embodies these same qualities. The fluid movement of a fish adds a sense of flow to the design, making it a perfect choice for those who aim to break free from rules and limitations. It’s a tattoo that represents both inner strength and the desire for boundless freedom.

BIRDS RIB TATTOO

There are no strict rules when choosing a motif for rib tattoos, but if you want your tattoo to feel realistic and lively, consider opting for moving animals like birds or fish. Their fluid motion and natural elegance can bring energy and life to the design, making it truly stand out on your ribcage.

SCORPION RIB TATTOO FOR WOMEN

Scorpion tattoos aren’t just for Scorpios; they hold a unique charm that appeals to many. Known for their sting, powerful claws, and poisonous tail, scorpions send a clear message: don’t mess with them. If you want to embody your badass vibes and make a bold statement, a scorpion tattoo is the perfect choice.

Plant tattoos on the rib cage

Plant tattoos often feature leaves, vines, and branches, typically done in black and fine lines. If you lean towards minimalist designs, plant tattoos are an excellent choice.

You can also adjust the composition to fit the natural flow of your bones, making them a perfect decoration for the rib cage. Below is a curated collection of plant rib tattoos for women. Keep scrolling to find the design that suits you best.

PORCELAIN LEAVES RIB TATTOO

In nature, bamboo leaves are green, but by switching the color to blue, this rib tattoo stands out in a unique and striking way. The unconventional color choice adds a bold twist to the traditional design, making it a standout piece of body art.

DAINTY NAME TATTOO

Name tattoos are not only simple but also deeply personal, often representing yourself or a loved one. However, if a full name tattoo feels too specific, consider opting for initials instead. They offer the same simplicity but with a more subtle, less literal touch.

SIMPLE VINE TATTOO ON THE RIB CAGE

Vine tattoos are a popular choice for the rib cage, and for good reason. Their simplicity beautifully complements the shape of the ribs, with the natural curves enhancing the wearer’s charm.

If a small vine tattoo feels too simple for you, consider adding flowers to it. This adds an extra touch of detail and flair, creating a more dynamic and eye-catching design.

LEAVES RIB CAGE TATTOO

Plant tattoos are incredibly popular, and this stunning design under the boob perfectly showcases why. By layering the leaves to follow the natural curves of the body, the tattoo becomes a beautiful decoration that enhances the silhouette. It’s a design that’s not only alluring and unique but also exudes a touch of sexiness, making it a bold and captivating choice.

STEP BY STEP

Take your time. Every small step matters.

FULL SIDE FLORAL TATTOO

Feeling adventurous? Go for a full side tattoo. With ample space, the tattoo artist has the freedom to get creative and design something truly unique.

However, full side tattoos can sometimes feel too intricate or overwhelming. By keeping the entire design in black, this rib tattoo retains its elegance and femininity, offering a bold yet refined look.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, rib tattoos offer a unique canvas for expressing personal meaning and creativity. Whether you opt for simple, minimalist designs or bold, detailed artwork, the rib cage’s shape and contours can enhance the tattoo’s impact. From flowers and animals to meaningful symbols, the possibilities are endless. Ultimately, the best tattoo is one that resonates with you, combines beauty with significance, and complements your body in a way that feels uniquely yours.