13 Badass Shark Tattoo Design Ideas
For many people, sharks are sources of fear and terror. Jaws, a movie about a human-killing shark, created this shark phobia for some, while others might have developed their aversion from stories of shark attacks or from personal encounters with sharks. Others are just scared of the predatory nature of sharks. However, a shark tattoo is symbolic of many positive attributes that one would want to embrace.
Sharks can represent power, fearlessness, authority, strength, and energy. Shark tattoos can also be a protective charm, keeping the wearer safe. Sharks appear calculating, intelligent, confident, assertive, knowledgeable, and bold. They also move with an unexpected litheness and grace that seems to contradict their strength and power. Sharks are the ideal predator, but also an amazingly resilient survivor.
Shark Tattoo Meaning
Interestingly, sailors and pirates often selected sharks as symbols of protection and safety while at sea. Unlike some modern ideas that sharks will kill those who fall overboard, seamen historically felt that the shark was their protector and a shark tattoo was helpful in a safe return to port and to avoid drowning or falling overboard. Along with this idea, some people feel that a shark tattoo helps people to navigate life, guiding them through trials and tribulations, helping them find home or peace. Sharks are incredibly adept at finding prey and sensing movement in the water. They rely on these innate senses for survival. Perhaps some people shark tattoos are hoping to rely on their own skills to get them through life. Furthermore, sharks represent action, seizing opportunities and making the most of situations. A shark will not hesitate to attack if given the chance and won’t take unnecessary risks if the situation takes a turn for the worst. Shark tattoos can convey this meaning, too.
Shark tattoo designs vary greatly. Some designs are fanciful or cartoon-like, while others are realistic. Shark tattoos might be fearsome, or they might even be cute. Much of the tattoo design depends on what the individual is looking for in terms of meaning and symbolism. Someone who wants a shark tattoo to represent strength and power is unlikely to choose a cute, little, cartoon shark. Likewise, someone who wants a tattoo to represent the history and culture of the Maori or other Polynesian tribes, will most likely choose a traditional tribal design, rather than a realistic and diagrammatic representation. Sharks can be scary, prehistoric predators, or they can be so much more than that.
Hammerhead Shark Tattoo

Whale Shark Tattoo

Shark Tooth Tattoo

Traditional Shark Tattoo

Tribal Shark Tattoo

Great White Shark Tattoo

Shark Fin Tattoo

Minimalist Shark Tattoo

Geometric Shark Tattoo

Cartoon Shark Tattoo

Shark Bite Tattoo

Thresher Shark Tattoo
