What is the meaning behind the teardrop tattoo?

Answer 1

There are a couple of different meanings to this tattoo, so it is relative to the person who has it and why they got it. Traditionally in the prison community where this tattoo originated, there are two main meanings to it. If the tear is hollow and has no color to it, it usually means that the person has simply served time. If the tear is filled in black, it means that the person has killed. It is important to note that it does always necessarily mean that the person has killed if the tear is colored in, but this is the traditional meaning to it, and there are sometimes repercussions if you get the tattoo under false pretenses. Aside from this, a tear drop tattoo can be an eternal tear for a lost family member if colored in blue. Due to the stigma that is attached to the tattoo and its association with convicts, it is not advisable to get the tattoo simply because you like it nor is it respectful.