13 Trendy Latin Tattoo Designs

Explore how these simple, small, classical words manage to speak volumes when inked.

By Nisha Baghadia Nisha Baghadia • Feb 21, 2023

Something about Latin tattoo designs drives fans to recreate it as their body art. When it comes to expressive tattoos, very few things are as edgy as words or phrases representing your personality. The selection of tattoos is never easy, and once you sit to search for it, there will be zillions of options to scroll through. You can even choose a unique phrase and style it in your tattoo. So, if you were thinking of getting a tattoo done, we are here to help. Go through these popular Latin tattoos, which can be the inspiration for your dream tattoo. Keep scrolling!

In This Article

13 Trendy And Inspirational Latin Tattoo Designs

1. Latin Quote Tattoos

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There are a plethora of quotes in the Latin language that you can choose from when getting a tattoo. Many people also go for self-written thoughts that they translate into Latin as it is more personal and unique. The quote “Tempus vulnera sanat” means “Time heals all wounds.” It makes for a cool Latin quote tattoo.

2. Tattoos With Latin Words

Latin phrase tattoo design on inner sleeve

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Latin words have become very popular in recent times as an option for tattoos. They are versatile, short, and can fit just about anywhere you want them. The phrase “Fluctuat nec mergitur” translates to “She is tossed by the waves but does not sink.” Isn’t that inspiring? Pair these words with a floral tattoo design to create your own masterpiece.

3. Latin Phrase Tattoos

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Latin phrase tattoos come in a varied range of designs and styles. These phrases are most commonly seen tattooed in calligraphy or handwritten fonts, but they look great in block text styles as well.

The Latin phrase, “Veni Vidi Amavi” means “We came. We saw. We loved.” It is definitely one of our top choices for a meaningful Latin phrase tattoo.

Trivia

Angelina Jollie has tattooed a Latin phrase “Quod me nutrut me destruit” on her hip. It means – “what nourishes me, destroys me”.

4. Latin Skull Tattoos

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While it does look scary at first, there are various meanings behind a skull tattoo. It could represent creativity, curiosity, and the power of human life. It is also used to denote strength, courage, protection, and triumph. Skulls are timeless elements in the world of tattoos. This specific Latin skull tattoo features a sunflower in the background that gives off a positive vibe and seems to celebrate human life.

5. Philosophical Latin Tattoos

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People who are deeply interested in philosophy express their thoughts through philosophical tattoos. Often, these philosophical quotes and phrases are chosen from ancient books and journals. The tattoo here says “Amor vincit omnia” which means “Love conquers all.” Paired with a watercolor effect, it makes for a wonderful artistic tattoo design. A great choice for people looking to get an elegant tattoo with a pop of color!

6. Creative Latin Tattoos

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Since there is a wide variety of fonts that you can explore when getting a Latin tattoo, make sure you consult a good tattoo artist who can help you figure out the font and style that you are going for. Take the chance to go through other South American tattoo designs for inspiration. You can also add some other elements – like the rose in this tattoo – to enhance your tattoo and reflect your personality through it.

7. Antique Latin Tattoos

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Antique Latin tattoos are all the rage right now, and they usually feature ancient numerals and lettering. Get a date that holds some sentimental value for you tattooed on your arm in Roman numerals.

8. Latin Warrior Tattoos

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Many people who are inspired by historical figures go for this type of ornate tattoo design. They get portraits of their favorite kings and queens from history or mythical heroes from scriptures tattooed on their body. Be it original images, detailed illustrations, or a calligraphed design featuring their names, there are many different ways to work with this theme. You can also dive into legends to come up with Latin mythological tattoo designs that fit the warrior theme.

9. Latin Couple Tattoos

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Couple tattoos have been trending for quite a while now. These couple tattoos feature the Latin quote “Amore vivit semper in pectore,” which means “Love lives its life in the chest.” The quote has been split in two, each half sported by each partner on the wrist. The tattoos represent their bond and relationship.

10. Latin Zodiac Tattoos

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Zodiac signs done up in a Latin style are popular amongst teenagers and young adults. They look similar to the usual zodiac designs, but they are inspired by traditional Latin symbols that give them a more dramatic look. This simple compass, for instance, is a symbolic element across cultures and can easily be incorporated into a zodiac theme.

11. Badass Latin Phrases For Tattoos

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Well, this one has got to be a bit intriguing, right? There are tons of cool Latin sayings and proverbs that you can get tattooed on your body. Aquila non captat muscas (The eagle does not capture flies) and Altissima quaeque flumina minimo sono labi (The deepest rivers flow with the least sound) are the two most popular Latin sayings that are tattooed by people.

12. Latin Wrist Tattoos

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People who rock a tattoo on their wrist look very chic. The wrist is one of the most preferred areas for a Latin tattoo. The tattoo pictured above has been done in a classic font to add a vintage vibe to it.

13. Latin Back Tattoos

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This beautiful tattoo combining a Latin phrase and a rose looks absolutely stunning. Get this tattoo done your spine to make heads turn. This tattoo is minimalistic and captivating at the same time.

Latin is one of the most ancient languages that used to be spoken across Europe during the 1^st century BC. Though it is a dead language now, it still remains popular and relevant in the tattooing world. It is especially common in Latin religious tattoo designs. However, there are non-religious quotes and elements that are equally popular. Let’s take a look at some famous Latin phrases that make exceptional tattoos.

Popular Latin Phrases That Make Great Tattoos

Non ducor duco – “I am not led; I lead.”
Castigat ridendo mores – “One corrects customs by laughing at them” or “He corrects morals by ridicule.”
Carpe noctem – “Seize the night.”
Dum vita est, spes est – “While there is life, there is hope.”
Cogito ergo sum – “I think therefore I am.”
Semper ad meliora – “Always towards better things.”
Sic itur ad astra – “Thus one goes to the star” or “Such is the way to immortality.”
Temet nosce – “Know thyself.”
Veni, vidi, vici – “I came, I saw, I conquered.”

Trivia

Jordan Danger has a Latin tattoo on her right forearm that reads “Aut viam inveniam aut faciam”. It means – “I’ll either find a way or make one”

Common Latin Tattoo Translation Mistakes That People Make

When it comes to tattoos, there are some real stinkers out there all thanks to bad designs or just a horrible tattoo artist. But then there are the misspelled words or extremely weird translations, which seem to be common in Latin tattoos.

So, what can you do to such a mistake? Here are some pointers:

Go for Latin symbols with hidden meanings that suit you best instead of phrases or quotes. You can make it more personal by adding your own twist to it.
Do your research and be careful and respectful when using cultural symbols, such as heraldic tattoo designs, that may have deep rooted meanings.
Don’t merely rely on translation apps or search engines for translations. Make sure you get in touch with a translation agency to get a precise translation to avoid any mistakes.
Make sure you know the meaning of your tattoo before you go off gallivanting on the internet to see what other people mean by that particular phrase. Each individual is unique, and so is their tattoo.

Latin Tattoo Fonts

Another important thing to remember when getting a tattoo is choosing a font that is in sync with your personality. We have scoured the internet for a few of the best options that you can go for while getting a Latin tattoo. Check them out!

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Placement Of Latin Tattoos

Tattoos are a big commitment. Hours of overthinking over what to get inked onto your skin is just the first step. Once you’ve made up your mind about what tattoo to get, you need to decide where to get it, because the placement of a Latin tattoo is just as crucial as it is to figure out the phrase you want to get. While your body is your canvas, you need to do figure out your own level of pain tolerance and do some research on which areas on your body hurt the most when you get a tattoo. The aesthetic appeal of the body part you want to tattoo and whether or not you want your tattoo to show are some other things you need to consider.

Getting a tattoo is super exciting. But you need to take some serious precaution to make sure that it heals properly. Check out this article to find out how to prepare your skin before getting a tattoo and how to take care of it to ensure proper healing.

Infographic: Interesting And Popular Latin Phrase Tattoos And Their Meanings

Nothing says Latin tattoos like an inked Latin phrase. With a Latin phrase as a tat, you not only hide yet reveal something important about yourself and your thoughts, but you also get to incorporate other elements that you want inked within the same piece. They make for truly symbolic tattoo designs. Check out the infographic below to learn about some of the most popular Latin phrases and what they mean.

interesting and popular latin phrase tattoos and their meanings (infographic)

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Almost everyone in this generation enjoys and desires to have unique tattoo styles and designs inked on their bodies. Some people enjoy inking their names and favorite quotations regardless of the distinctive designs. They also look for a more distinctive writing style to help it stand out, and Latin is the most commonly used language and style for tattoos. Latin is an ancient language that appears valuable when paired with tattoo art. Latin quotes in tattoos can communicate a wide range of emotions. You can use any Latin tattoo ideas listed in this article to create a stunning aesthetic.