Humans have always been in awe of snakes. There is both a fear and a fascination with these cold-blooded creatures. People have put snakes on pedestals and worshiped them or killed them out of ignorance. Ancient civilizations worshiped the serpent or presented it as an image of an anti-god. In Christian imagery, the snake was used to symbolize the devil. Through all of this, the snake is a very common image in tattoos.
The mysticism and projection of power translates well to a tattoo. The typical reaction to a snake tattoo is fear and horror, followed by awe and wonder. People who see a snake tattoo can't help but look and guess what kind of person would wear a snake tattoo.
The following 30 images offer a small representation of the most popular and spectacular snake tattoos.
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1. Small snake tattoo
If you want discreet but intimidating ink, a small snake tattoo is an excellent option for you. A small tattoo gives you more freedom in choosing the ideal placement for it. You can have this ink on your hand, wrist, finger and even behind your ear. A small ink is best rendered with black ink to emphasize its simple design. This makes the design stand out more and makes it easier for the artist to touch it up.
2. Simple snake tattoo
Snake tattoos are versatile through and through. They look amazing when inked in different tattoo styles like Japanese Irezumi art, but simple snake tattoos are also eye-catching. If you are the laid back type and prefer a more straightforward tattoo design, go for this simple snake tattoo. Despite the lack of details, the meaning will always be the same.
3. Snake and skull tattoo
Men who are interested in gothic tattoo design will be impressed by the snake and skull tattoo combination. This colorway will stand out wherever it is placed. The snake and skull tattoo design is often associated with poison or death, but it also represents rebirth and the endless cycle of life and death. There are also different ways to create this tattoo design; One is the snake in the eye of the skull to symbolize knowledge.
4. Snake Skeleton Tattoo
For an unusual yet extraordinary take on your snake tattoo, consider using a snake skeleton instead. This design enjoys great popularity as it is an intricate design that is the pride of a great tattoo artist. You need to be familiar with anatomical structures to create an excellent replica of the snake skeleton. It is also difficult to insert into the skin, wrapped around the arm, bicep or shoulder. This tattoo design will surely be something to talk about.
5. Snake Head Tattoo
A snake head tattoo is probably one of the most intimidating and relaxed tattoo options you can have for your next inking. It is a perfect choice for men who want a masculine tattoo design as the snake is a dangerous predator. The artist can focus on the snake's fangs and hypnotic eyes to make it more menacing. In most cases, snake head tattoos are done realistically with lots of energy and fluid movements. It looks like it's about to pop off your skin any second.
6. Traditional Tribal Snake Tattoo
Traditional tribal tattoos are one of the most effective ways to pay tribute to culture. For the African and Polynesian cultures, tattoos can be earned by achieving their personal goals or by being bestowed by the community. Tattoos for these cultures are inspired by nature, including animals and plants. Tribal tattoos always look mesmerizing because of the continuous lines and black ink they use. This tattoo style is perfect if you want a badass snake tattoo because it suits the long curving body of the snake. A tribal snake tattoo is adaptable to any placement you have in mind. Show it off by getting this tattoo on your forearm or shoulder.
7. Python Snake Tattoo
Another sacred snake is the python. For a spiritual tattoo design, you can choose this type of snake for your next inking. Pythons are revered in Africa. Killing it is forbidden. Pythons are also one of the largest species of snakes. If you want a detailed python design, it's best to have it on the back or chest.
8. Black Mamba Snake Tattoo
The black mamba snake is one of the most venomous snakes in the world. Native to Africa, this dangerous reptile is known for its agility and speed. Despite its seemingly harmless appearance, this snake can become very aggressive when threatened. The Black Mamba Snake Tattoo is an excellent tattoo design for you if you can identify well with its characteristics. Likewise, it's a popular choice for Kobe Bryant fans looking to pay tribute to the basketball legend.
9. Rattlesnake Tattoo
If you want a snake tattoo with a unique meaning connected to your masculinity, choose a rattlesnake tattoo. The rattlesnake symbolizes potency and fertility. This snake strikes with lightning speed and is associated with rain to fertilize the land. The rattlesnake is also a symbol of transformation and death.
10. Cobra Tattoo
Cobras are one of the most venomous but also the most sacred snakes in the world. Indigenous peoples in India consider cobras to be an emblem due to their spiritual importance. It is a symbol of power and is believed to have protected Buddha from the sun when he slept. Although cobras are venomous, they are also considered protectors in various cultures. If you have the same views, getting a cobra snake tattoo is an excellent idea.
11. Viper Snake Tattoo
If you want an intriguing snake tattoo, choose a viper ink design. Vipers symbolize treachery and are very deadly snakes. They attack instinctively and there is no reasoning with these creatures. Aesthetically, a viper tattoo design is cool and exciting to have on your arm, bicep or chest.
12. Realistic Snake Tattoo
For a tattoo design that stands out, consider a realistic snake tattoo design. An experienced artist creates a 3D snake design that looks like it's alive. The tattoo artist uses unique shading techniques and the smallest details in the design. Realistic snake tattoos are best rendered in large areas of placement such as the back, chest, and thighs.
13. Snake Eye Tattoo
Another intimidating tattoo design that you can have is the snake eye tattoo. It is very similar to the dragon eye tattoo for its fearsome and reptilian appearance. It is best inked in a hyper-realistic style using saturated yellow and green ink. Ideally, your artist should be proficient in creating these types of tattoos so they can create an illusion of depth and life. The eyes should have snake scales to add more energy and movement with this ink.
14. Snake and Dagger Tattoo
The snake and dagger tattoo says it all for a tattoo that represents triumph, bravery and overcoming obstacles. It is especially true when designed so that the dagger pierces the serpent! On the other hand, a serpent coiled around a blade symbolizes the Roman god Mercury.
15. Two headed snake tattoo
If you think getting a snake tattoo is badass, then getting a two-headed snake tattoo makes it twice as cool! This fresh and exciting idea represents a deep inner struggle between your two opposite personalities. It has to be united - the aggressive side and the calm side - to achieve balance. Alternatively, it can also mean having two "paths" in life and making difficult choices.
16. Snake eating her tail tattoo
This tattoo design is not very rare and is an ancient symbol in Egyptian iconography. The Ouroboros, or the snake that eats itself, is a mystical image dating back thousands of years, representing oneness and infinity. It shows the cycle of life, death and rebirth. An Ouroboros tattoo is a spiritual or historical image that you can wear with pride if you resonate with its meaning. You can have it on your back in its original circular image or create the symbol of infinity.
17. Rose and Snake Tattoo
For a symbolic and badass snake tattoo, try mixing it with a rose or a bouquet of roses. Snake tattoos carry a range of meanings, some positive and some negative. A rose, on the other hand, is a popular tattoo element. It can be added to tone down a potentially bad image of the snake. Roses are associated with love and passion, and with the snake tattoo, the meaning shifts towards romantic temptation and overwhelming power. Make it gothic or create a traditional tattoo style to make the design more influential.
18. Gucci snake tattoo
The notorious fashion brand Gucci became popular with its scarlet kingsnake animal logo. It's iconic with white, black and red snakes looking cool and alive with their half curled pose. Interestingly, the scarlet kingsnake is a species of snake that is non-confrontational and is a solitary creature. They are neither poisonous nor poisonous to humans. Hence, this snake is an ideal choice for a person who has a friendly and introverted personality rather than snake tattoos which are portrayed as aggressive and intimidating.
19. Snake Forearm Tattoo
Another popular placement option for snake tattoos is the forearm. This spot offers a long and narrow space that works well for the snake tattoo design. If you want your awesome snake ink to be seen easily or have the ability to cover it up when needed, wear it on your forearm instead. Ideally, a semi-coiled snake tattoo customized with other fantastic elements is an excellent ink design to have in this prominent place.
20. Snake Shoulder Tattoo
Many men find shoulder tattoos an appealing choice when it comes to getting a snake tattoo. The placement allows for larger, more intricate tattoo designs that extend to the bicep or down to the chest area. A snake shoulder tattoo will draw attention to your shoulder muscles and give off that cool and edgy look. For an intimidating effect, opt for a flashy snake that looks like it's about to attack.
21. Snake Finger Tattoo
In recent years, finger tattoos have become very popular among both men and women. A small tattoo on one of the fingers can appear subtle and relaxed – especially if it is a snake. A solid black ink snake is a small but meaningful ink design on the top or side of your finger. You can have it wrapped or tattooed. It can also be a unique matching couple tattoo as the snake design suits both men and women.
22. Snake tattoo on sleeve
If you are interested in building up a sleeve tattoo, snakes make excellent anchors for this project. You can have a huge snake tattoo or a collection of tattoos that stretch from your shoulder to your wrist. A snake tattoo can be the central design of your sleeve ink for that edgy and textured look. Other elements that you can add to customize your sleeves are waves and other Japanese elements like sakura flowers or temples.
23. Thigh Snake Tattoo
If you want a much larger snake tattoo that is not overly exposed, choose a thigh snake tattoo instead. A thigh tattoo is one of the least painful places, so you can have a detailed and intricate tattoo on that spot. If you are aiming for a beautiful snake tattoo, choose a design with curved lines and ask your artist to work it around the muscle without distorting the image. You can have a realistic 3D snake or something intimidating like a curled up cobra image.
24. Snake tattoo on back
Would you like to have an ultimate snake tattoo? Consider getting a full back snake tattoo for this larger than life project. The back offers plenty of space for an excellent snake tattoo design like a Japanese snake combined with other traditional symbols like waves, peonies, koi and sakura flowers. You can even combine your snake tattoo with a dragon or tiger design to create a unique piece of body art.
25. Snake wrapped around arm tattoo
When it comes to snake tattoos, men can style it as if it wraps around their body part. One of the most popular placements for the coiled snake tattoo is on the arm. The snake's body is slender and curved. So they do excellent wrapping tattoos on a man's muscular body part like the biceps. It can be done in a half-sleeve or full-sleeve effect if you want it to run from your wrist to your shoulder.
26. Leg snake tattoo
In recent years, men and women have been exploring the beauty of leg tattoos. Snake tattoos are a great option if you are thinking of getting a leg inked as they will quickly mold to the fit of your legs without overpowering the curves. Seek the services of an experienced artist so you can create a circular design on your knee for the evil snake eye. You can also have the snake wrapped around your leg for a unique design.
27. Snake tattoo on wrist
Space in your wrist might be small, but it also works well for snake tattoos. You can have a simple coiled or small snake like cuff on your wrist for a subtle design. Although solid black ink is great for small and uncomplicated wrist tattoos, you can also try the watercolor style for a banded tattoo that you can extend towards your arm.
28. Snake ankle tattoo
If you are looking for more discreet tattoo ideas, consider a snake ankle tattoo instead. An ankle tattoo is easy to hide under pants or while wearing the shoe. This placement option also allows you different design options for your snake coloring. You can wrap it, wrap it, or tie it on your feet like an anklet. Additionally, you can also expand the design towards your foot or up towards your calves for a more detailed view.
29. Snake Chest Tattoo
The chest area is another excellent placement option for more extensive and detailed snake coloring. You can have a full color and dynamic image of a snake combined with other elements like an eagle or dragon for an excellent design. Chest tattoos are best done in the old school art style, but some men are also exploring modern styles like the pec tattoo. Whatever methods you use, chest tattoos will always be a statement piece that you can easily show off.
30. Hand Snake Tattoo
Snake tattoos also look great on wider or flatter areas like the hand. While the design works well on long and slender areas, you can have it intricately inked on your hand so you will see it often and be reminded of its importance in your life. However, tattoos on the hand age faster than tattoos on other parts of the body. This is because hands are more exposed to washing and use. So it's best to get something tattooed in plain black ink so it's easier to touch up in the future.
FAQ
What does a snake tattoo mean?
Although some religions and cultures think snakes are evil, snakes have a long history of carrying messages of power, fertility, and health. It can also symbolize rebirth, life and change.
What does a snake and skull tattoo mean?
The snake and skull image is a combination of two opposites: life and death. The skull represents death, decay and the end of things. The snake represents rebirth, transformation and is also an indication of the cycle of life.
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FAQs
Are snake tattoos trending? ›
Snake tattoos are already popular among the masses, but they seem to be becoming a growing trend among celebs as well. Zoë Kravitz recently got a snake wrapped around a heart as the 56th tattoo in her collection, while singer Elle King has a snake placed on the front of her neck.
What does a snake tattoo mean on a woman? ›It represents death and reincarnation. Snakes shed their skin and thus become a symbol of rebirth. In terms of meaning, the two elements are complementary.
What looks good with a snake tattoo? ›Roses are a very traditional and universally popular tattoo design because of their association with love; when combined with a snake, the meaning changes to one of romantic temptation and overwhelming passion. A Gothic or traditional art style would pair well with the snake-and-rose design.
What is the symbolism of snake tattoo? ›A characteristic of snakes is that they shed, allowing it to heal and appear new. This lends itself to becoming a symbol of rebirth and transformation. The idea of a snake shedding its old layer of skin resonates with many people who are looking to represent the concept of turning over a new leaf and rebirth.
Where is the best position for snake tattoo? ›Snake Tattoo Placement
Snake tattoos are a versatile tattoo idea, that depending on its size can be placed on any part of the body. Small snake tattoos are usually placed on the neck, or even face. Big snake eyes are often seen on biceps or shoulders.
A snake and rose tattoo can represent many things, but is most commonly associated with danger and love. Yep, that's right. Danger because the snake is often considered to be a symbol of evil, and love because the rose is thought to be the most romantic flower there is.
What does a 3 headed snake tattoo mean? ›The three-headed serpent is a powerful symbol that dates back centuries, representing both sin and deceit (in the Bible), as well as intimidation and power (in ancient Greece).
What snake symbolizes healing? ›During the Middle Ages the caduceus became a symbol of the healing sciences (pharmacy and alchemy in particular), and today, although mythologically incorrect, it is in common usage in the health care field.
What kind of tattoos are unprofessional? ›"In most industries, your boss and colleagues will just shrug their shoulders and adapt to the way you look." But there are two types of tattoos that aren't likely to fly: face and neck tattoos. Ruettimann said those tattoos will likely disqualify you from jobs where you'll be meeting clients in particular.
What are some cool snake names? ›...
Unique Snake Names
- Veinoil – Champion Of The Green.
- Albym – The Firestarter.
- Uvrodon – The Magnificent.
- Rindrianth – The Gifted One.
- Uvrut – The White.
- Porson – The Great.
- Nonnilth – The Powerful.
- Rumryss – The Warrior.
What is the spiritual symbol of a snake? ›
Historically, serpents and snakes represent fertility or a creative life force. As snakes shed their skin through sloughing, they are symbols of rebirth, transformation, immortality, and healing. The ouroboros is a symbol of eternity and continual renewal of life.
What does a triangle with a snake mean? ›Ouroboros is a gnostic and alchemical symbol that expresses the unity of all things, material and spiritual, which never disappear but perpetually change form in an eternal cycle of destruction and re-creation.
What do snake tattoos on both sides of neck mean? ›Generally, the symbolism revolves around rebirth, renewal, and transformation because of the snake's ability to shed its own skin, heal it and have it appear brand new.
Should animal tattoos face in or out? ›In tattooing a general rule is that all designs should face the center of the body (heart). For example, front thigh tattoos should face inwards towards each other.
What does a snake wrapped around your arm tattoo mean? ›Rebirth/Circle of Life
The first and most obvious meaning of a snake tattoo is change or rebirth.
The Snake and Rose Meaning
The Rose is a symbol of purity and beauty, when the Snake coils around a rose it corrupts this perfection and eternity with its evil nature. A Snake wrapped around a rose is blinding passion, temptation that lead to corruption.
"Spiritual tattoos — hamsa, mandala, chakra, tree of life, Buddha, lotus, etc. — is a trend that took over 2021, and it's definitely sticking around for 2022," he said. "They hold a sacred significance, reflecting on people's needs for positive energy and optimistic thinking."
What are the coolest tattoo trends for 2022? ›Nic El, the owner of Gorilla Tattoo Paphos, says spiritual tattoos are also big for 2022 — think mandala, hamsa, and lotus designs. “They are deeply associated with healing, balance, growth, rebirth, and positive energies, therefore many people associate with them,” he tells Bustle.
What is the newest tattoo trends? ›New tattoo trends like colorful, dotwork, minimalist, abstract, and '90s themed are only a few examples of what you can expect to become popular in 2022. If you become a tattoo artist you can start making your own designs and become an influential artist who invents their own trends in years to come.
What does snake and cherry blossom tattoo mean? ›Tattoo design portraying a snake wrapped around cherry blossoms. The cherry blossoms symbolize renewal while the snake symbolizes rebirth, transformation, and healing. All in all, this design embodies the process of letting go of the past and becoming who you truly are.
What does the infinity snake tattoo mean? ›
In speech and writing, the ouroboros is often called “the self-eating snake,” used as learned term or metaphor for infinity, cyclicality, or some other kinds of loop phenomena, often self-destructive in nature. The ouroboros is also a popular tattoo and internet icon as personal symbol for rebirth.
What does snake with wings tattoo mean? ›As mentioned above, the caduceus symbol of two snakes winding around an often winged staff is known to be associated with medicine and healing.
What is the hardest spot to tattoo? ›The armpit is among the most painful places, if not the most painful place, to get tattooed. The pain you'll experience getting tattooed here is very severe. In fact, most tattoo artists advise against people getting armpit tattoos.
What is the most regretted tattoo? ›Tribal Style Designs
Tribal style tats ranked as the most regrettable content choice overall, according to a survey of 600 people by Advanced Dermatology.
- I Let My Dog Sleep In My Bed With Me. ...
- How Much For A Sleeve? ...
- Can You Draw Something, And If I Like It, I Book An Appointment? ...
- I Am Just 17, But My Parents Approve. ...
- Can You Hurry Up, Please? ...
- I Had A Few Beers To Man Up.
Burt's “Three Percenter” tattoo, seen here on his left forearm. The Roman numeral “III” references the debunked claim that only 3% of the American colonists rose up in arms against the British. The 13 stars represent the original 13 colonies.
What does 444 neck tattoo mean? ›The “444” specifically refers to passion and ambition. The number is meant to inspire you to get your act together and move towards something great, don't drag your feet, and reignite and find the things that make you passionate about life. Teen Wolf's Tyler Posey Explains His Tattoos.
What does 3 triangles in a row tattoo meaning? ›Originating around the Middle Ages, this symbol featuring three interlocking triangles has been known to serve as an illustration for the afterlife, rebirth, and the concepts of continuity, order and undying will.
What God is symbolized by snakes? ›Quetzalcóatl, Mayan name Kukulcán, (from Nahuatl quetzalli, “tail feather of the quetzal bird [Pharomachrus mocinno],” and coatl, “snake”), the Feathered Serpent, one of the major deities of the ancient Mexican pantheon.
Why is snake a symbol of God? ›The familiar mythology of the ancient Near East manifests the primeval struggle between the powers of good and evil, both of which are often represented by snakes. As a bringer of salvation and giver of everlasting life the snake became a divine reptile.
What is the single snake medical symbol? ›
Caduceus is a symbol with a short staff entwined by two serpents, sometimes surmounted by wings while the Rod of Asclepius is the one with a single snake.
What do doctors think of tattoos? ›Surprisingly (or not), about 40% of physicians surveyed in the British Medical Journal do not approve of tattoos on their colleagues… basically feeling it is the equivalent of professional appearance malpractice. Of the 60% that say it's okay, many of them say the ink should be covered while on the job.
Can I get fired because of my tattoos? ›There are no federal laws making it illegal for an employer to refuse to hire, refuse to promote, or even fire someone based on the fact that person has tattoos (with a few exceptions as noted below.) Having tattoos is not a protected classification under federal law.
Do employers dislike tattoos? ›Body art no longer has any stigma in the labor market, new research suggests. Michael T.
What is the most iconic snake? ›Answer: I'd say you were correct the first time in thinking blue is the least common color in the herp world.
What is the most feared snake? ›The saw-scaled viper, Echis carinatus, is considered the deadliest snake in the world, according to Britannica. This type of snake is said to be responsible for "more human deaths than all other snake species combined." The venom of the saw-scaled viper is not as lethal as other snakes, but it is far more aggressive.
What does the Bible say about snakes? ›In Christianity, a connection between the Serpent and Satan is created, and Genesis 3:14-15 where God curses the serpent, is seen in that light: "And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and ...
What is the three snakes symbol? ›As a symbolic object, it represents Hermes (or the Roman Mercury), and by extension trades, occupations, or undertakings associated with the god. In later Antiquity, the caduceus provided the basis for the astrological symbol representing the planet Mercury.
What is the difference between snake and serpent? ›There is no difference between a snake and a serpent,. The suborder that snakes are in is called Serpentes, which is why we call them serpents.
What is the double snake symbol? ›
The caduceus, a staff with two snakes coiled around it, is the official insignia of the United States Medical Corps, Navy Pharmacy Division, and the Public Health Service. The caduceus is also the magic wand carried by Hermes (the Romans knew him as Mercury), the messenger of the gods.
What does a snake with a crown mean? ›The Uraeus serpent represented the Egyptian snake goddess Wadjet, patroness, and protector of Lower Egypt. In ancient Egypt, the Uraeus represented divinity, sovereignty, and royal authority. The pharaoh wore a Uraeus symbol on his crown in order to represent his authority of Lower Egypt.
What does the snake arrow mean? ›The serpent represents transformation. Together, these symbols represent the strength of will, and the history of humankind's tenacity, persistence, and forward moving progress. Follow your bliss. Let it lead you. Believe in yourself.
What compliments a snake tattoo? ›Roses are a very traditional and universally popular tattoo design because of their association with love; when combined with a snake, the meaning changes to one of romantic temptation and overwhelming passion. A Gothic or traditional art style would pair well with the snake-and-rose design.
What does it mean when a lady has a snake tattoo? ›It represents death and reincarnation. Snakes shed their skin and thus become a symbol of rebirth.
Why are girls getting snake tattoos? ›A characteristic of snakes is that they shed, allowing it to heal and appear new. This lends itself to becoming a symbol of rebirth and transformation. The idea of a snake shedding its old layer of skin resonates with many people who are looking to represent the concept of turning over a new leaf and rebirth.
What is the current tattoo trend? ›New tattoo trends like colorful, dotwork, minimalist, abstract, and '90s themed are only a few examples of what you can expect to become popular in 2022. If you become a tattoo artist you can start making your own designs and become an influential artist who invents their own trends in years to come.
What is the new tattoo trend called? ›Dotwork tattoos are a unique and artistic tattoo trend that is becoming increasingly popular. These tattoos use a series of small, precise dots to create detailed and intricate designs, often with a highly stylized or abstract aesthetic.
What is the tattoo letter for 2022? ›The tattoo letter for animals born in 2022 is 'K'.
What tattoos will go out of style? ›Things like moons, stars, dots, arrows, astrology symbols, loved ones' initials, coordinates of special places. These are usually in black ink and anywhere from behind the ear and the side of ribs to on fingers and toes. These designs will all go in and out of trend.
What are the 5 types of tattoos? ›
- Traditional & Old School Tattoo Style. ...
- Neo Traditional Tattoo Style. ...
- Fine Line Tattoo Style. ...
- Tribal tattoo Style. ...
- Watercolor tattoo Style. ...
- Blackwork tattoo Style. ...
- Japanese tattoo style. ...
- Trash Polka tattoo style.