Tattoos: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in everyday conversations to refer to permanent designs made on the skin using ink.

• She has several tattoos on her arms
• He got a tattoo of a dragon on his back

Typically used in more formal contexts or in the art world to describe tattoos and other forms of artistic alterations to the body.

• Body art has become increasingly popular in recent years
• The exhibition featured an array of body art from different cultures

Informal and often used within the tattoo community to refer to both the tattoos themselves and the act of getting a tattoo.

• He's got some fresh ink on his arm
• She decided to get some new ink for her birthday

Used when emphasizing the artistic aspect of tattoos, often referring to the specific patterns or styles.

• He spent hours selecting the perfect design for his tattoo
• Her tattoo designs are truly unique and intricate

Permanent designs or symbols added to the skin, often with personal or cultural significance.

• She has several tattoos, including a dragon on her back and a flower on her wrist.
• Many people get tattoos to commemorate important events in their lives.

Can refer to the substance used in the tattooing process, often colloquially referring to the act of getting a tattoo or the tattoos themselves.

• He has some new ink on his arm that he got last week.
• The artist used red and black ink to create the design.

General term for a visible impression, not necessarily permanent, which could be created through various methods. Can have negative connotations when referring to unwelcome or accidental marks.

• She left a mark on the paper with her pen.
• There was a mark on his face from the fall.

To add a design or pattern to make something more attractive, generally referring to non-permanent or non-skin applications.

• They used Christmas lights to decorate the house for the holidays.
• She likes to decorate her notebooks with stickers and drawings.