You’ve heard the phrase, “an angel on your shoulder”. You can make that a reality with an angel tattoo. But what does it symbolize?
Angel tattoo meanings include being blessed, expressing gratitude, seeking protection, feeling spiritual, or remembering someone who has passed away.
As you may know, angels have a special place in religions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. They are divine messengers and protectors. But don’t forget the cute cherubs that are also popular for tattoos.
If you feel fortunate and want the world to know, or simply wish for a constant reminder of goodness and love, an angel tattoo is the way to go. Check out the best angel tattoo designs that will make you feel blessed.
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Best Angel Tattoo Designs
Angel tattoo ideas
This simple linework cherub captures the essence of feeling blessed. The peaceful face and restful pose inspire serenity.
It’s a minimalist tattoo that won’t cost much or take long to heal, but then it provides a lasting sense of peace and thankfulness.
Cherub angel tattoo
This adorable little cherub is one of our favorite angel tattoo ideas for females. It resembles one of those porcelain figurines that collectors love. Just look at her with her curls, halo, and sparkly wand. Maybe she can work some positive juju for you.
Angel and devil tattoos
Angels symbolize the will to do good while devils represent the temptation to be bad. Now you can have them both help you weigh your choices. These heart-shaped tattoos may appeal to your better nature or help you realize your darkest desires.
What does an angel wings tattoo symbolize?
If you get inked with just angel wings, what does it mean? In this case, the tattoo is helpfully labeled with the word “blessed”. Perhaps this person feels they are divinely protected. We wouldn’t be surprised if a gifted athlete had this tattoo, either.
We like the shading on this black and gray design. Can you see the white highlights?
Guardian angel tattoo
The angel itself is invisible but the protective wing is there along with a script. If you feel like your guardian angel always has your back, why not honor it with beautiful body art like this? The realistic-looking feathers make us think that she is about to take flight.
Small angel wings tattoo on an arm
Did you earn your wings? Remember that Christmas movie about the suicidal fellow who finds out what the world would be like if he never existed? His guardian angel convinced him that his life was worth living and thereby earned his wings.
This small pair of angel wings is in plain sight where it can remind you every day of all the good things to live for.
Praying angel tattoo
Counting your blessings is a good way to stay humble and grateful amidst the storms of life. Having a sweet angel tattoo praying nearby is a good reminder.
But if you think about it, this charming cherub also resembles a tombstone decoration. Perhaps this tattoo collector has lost someone dear and they’ve chosen this design to honor them.
Female angel tattoo
We see female angels less frequently than little boy cherub angels or mighty warrior angels and that makes this beautiful illustration all the more precious. She’s paused in devout meditation and prayer with her halo demonstrating her status as a holy being.
Angel tattoo in remembrance of someone
Our eyes prickled when we saw this lovingly rendered image. Someone’s mom has died and their life will never be the same. But they will think of her every day and anyone who sees the tattoo will know that she was loved.
Descending angel tattoo
What does this design mean to you? We’re curious as to its meaning. First, there’s an angel with a face darkened by shadow. It’s reaching out one hand and holding a giant feather in the other. It appears to be hovering in midair on a background filled with vertical writing and leaves. We don’t know what it symbolizes, but we admire the artist’s skill.
Whispering angel tattoo
You might also call this a guardian angel tattoo. The cherub definitely has someone’s attention. The little guy looks like he should be on the Sistine Chapel ceiling. It’s beautifully rendered right down to the shadowing and highlights and the curve of the hand grasping the ear.
If you’d like to show your gratitude for divine guidance, this is an eye-catching way to do it.
Angel tattoo designs for guys
Not to be stereotypical, but this manly angel is something that women admire and guys aspire to have. Could be an archangel tattoo, perhaps of Michael? At any rate, this warrior angel tattoo is sure to get compliments.
Protector angel tattoo
She’s not just a guardian angel, she watches over the whole earth. She’s like an avatar of Nature, embracing the planet and spreading peace and love.
Where to place an angel tattoo?
Let’s get practical for a moment. When you get a tattoo, you have to decide where to place it. All too often, people don’t realize that this is a long-term commitment that requires maintenance. If you get a tattoo somewhere you have a lot of body hair, how will the design look once the hair returns? Are you willing to remove the hair regularly once the tattoo heals? The elegant nature of an angel tattoo means that hairy skin might ruin the effect.
You might also consider whether you want the world to see your body art or if it’s private. Do you want it to be visible and orientated for you to appreciate or are you okay if you have to look into a mirror to see it?
Lastly, some areas of the body are more sensitive. If you choose a highly saturated, heavily shaded design, it’s going to hurt more on the rib cage or the feet compared to the arm or leg. But when it comes down to it, listen to your artist and go with what feels right.