Meaning of a swallow bird tattoo

Birds always symbolized freedom, with humanity being fascinated by the gorgeous wings swaying through the high skies. However, the swallows are different, and different cultures mark different meanings of this fascinating bird.

A swallow tattoo has an intriguing history dating back to the early days of sailing in the UK. Although the meaning of the tattoo differed slightly, it always contained the message that the sailor would return home just as the swallows do. The number of swallows and placement of the swallow tattoo further enhanced its meaning. The original swallow tattoos were barn swallows in flight. In some circles, they represented the experience of the sailor with one swallow signifying the completion of 5, nautical miles, while two swallows indicating the sailor had completed 10, miles. The swallow sailor tattoo was typically placed on the chest, hand or arm. According to legend, a swallow tattoo guaranteed that the sailor would return home safely.

Meaning of a swallow bird tattoo

Although over the years the meaning has changed slightly, back then, it used to be a good luck symbol that the sailor would return home, just the same as swallows do. The placement and amount of swallows tattooed heightened the meaning even further. Are you thinking about getting a swallow tattoo? Why not try Tattoo Numbing Cream today? The type of swallow that was originally tattooed were typically barn swallows in flight. Some sailors said that the number of swallows represented the amount of experience they had- with one swallow representing the achievement of sailing 5, miles. To indicate that this tattoo was representing this meaning, the tattoo would be placed on the chest, arm or hand. According to legend, in having this swallow tattoo, you were then guaranteed to return home safely. Some believed this legend so much so that they would get the tattoo before they set off for sail and another after they returned to their home port. In modern times though, swallows can be of all shapes, sizes and designs. This may range from being a silhouette, outline an intricate design or something bolder. They may also be combined with flowers, hearts, banners or slogans which further enhance their meaning. The meanings have changed slightly over the years and they now represent a variety of symbolisms including:. Nowadays, the symbolic meaning of a swallow tattoo can change depending on the design. Some of these meanings include:.

As a swallow bird tattoo symbolizes joy, hope, and loyalty, they also symbolize fidelity, peace, and happiness. That widely depends on how big the tattoo is.

A swallow tattoos is a profound historical symbol that brings light, purity, and the arrival of something new. This bird is very unusual and mysterious. Many users continue to stuff the bird, but what is swallow tattoo meaning, what does it carry in itself? Today we will tell you about all these points, reveal the hidden meaning of this bird , and of course, show the most unusual and beautiful designs. So keep reading to stay up to date with everything new in tattoos. The swallow tattoo is a very deep and filled design with a lot of meanings. We suggest you explore them in more detail.

Swallows are a symbol of endurance, renewal, and loyalty. Bold or delicate, these swallow tattoos will inspire your next ink. They are not just a gem in the eyes of bird watchers but also a significant motif in the world of tattoos. While bird watching is a hobby across cultures, tattooing swallows on the bodies has become an intimate way of appreciating these avian creatures. When it comes to swallow tattoo designs, the possibilities are endless.

Meaning of a swallow bird tattoo

A swallow tattoo represents tradition linked to sailors traveling 5, miles on the ocean or representing being close to home. The swallow is also utilized in other old-school nautical tattoo imagery or exploring themes such as love, monogamy, loyalty, and even duality. Sailor Jerry was the inventor and innovator of the American traditional style we know and love today, and his swallow tattoo designs are still in use, found on the walls of tattoo shops across the world. While the swallow is an overwhelmingly old-school traditional tattoo, its style is developing in contemporary body art, especially in technical application and placement. The article below examines the most common swallow tattoo meaning and concepts, while also explaining how the small bird is developing a slightly different meaning in modern ink. An American traditional swallow tattoo has long been an incredibly meaningful choice for sailors and tattoo enthusiasts alike.

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Bonus: the best unique designs inside. For the first few days, do not touch the tattoo or remove the protective film because infection or bacteria can easily get into the wound. It may indicate that the person values themes such as freedom, resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges. Swallow tattoos are appropriate for all genders, but we decided to dig down for some more elegant and sophisticated designs. They may be combined with roses or other flowers, hearts, banners or slogans to further enhance their meaning. Some believed this legend so much so that they would get the tattoo before they set off for sail and another after they returned to their home port. A bicep is a popular place for swallow tattoo, especially for sailors who are at a distance from their families and their loved ones. Fidelity obliges people to feel loyal towards the people and causes that they believe in. After all, in the Bible , the swallow indicates the incarnation and resurrection of Jesus. Some sailors said that the number of swallows represented the amount of experience they had- with one swallow representing the achievement of sailing 5, miles.

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Deauna Roane is an associate editor for YourTango who covers pop culture, lifestyle, astrology, and relationship topics. Swallow vs. Having this tattoo also spreads awareness. Similar Posts. Both birds are used as totems and have quite similar meanings. I haven't found information I was primary looking for. Send Cancel. This bird is very unusual and mysterious. Some of these meanings include:. In this article, you will find some style ideas and advice on how to be sure of your decision. No wonder some people fall in love with their blending, shading, and unique illusions only the colorful tattoos can give to the skin.