What do arrow tattoos symbolize? [2021 Inspiration Guide] (2023)

The arrow is a symbolic tattoo choice, such as a protective solitary shaft, or pair of arrows that may delineate war, peace, or friendship depending on the way you ascribe it.

Single arrow tattoos, doubles, triples, whole quiver ink, or imagery accompanying them can change the meaning based on angle, direction, body placement, or whether they’ve been etched alongside a bow or other items.

The vast array of symbolic meanings can further adapt your arrow tattoo to your own personal beliefs, life experiences, and personality traits, which makes them one of the 50+ best tattoo ideas.

Additionally, the simplicity of the arrow design means that it usually does not require a lot of time to finish, giving newbies or the cost-conscious a taste of the tattoo experience without being overwhelming.

The following article establishes the range and depth of arrow tattoo meanings and will give you possible options for future choices you can take to your tattoo artist.

Traditional Symbolism in Arrow Tattoo Design

Arrow tattoos are among the most timeless personal symbols, making them a classic tattoo design, engineered to show off your flair and personality.

The symbolic meaning of an arrow tattoo depends largely on the number of arrows involved and the way they are positioned.

1. Single Arrow Tattoo Variations

Some common representations of the single arrow tattoo design include love, direction, power, physical strength, and masculinity.

An arrow pointing down means peace, while one facing left or right can ward off evil or act as protection.

An arrow pointing straight up leads to more spiritual interpretations, while for some the feathers in an arrow are an empyrean representation of souls on the path to heaven, and are etched as a memorial to someone close who has passed away.

A solitary arrow passing through a diamond, for example, can represent you moving forward through a challenge in your life, while the symbolic meaning of one being shot through a target or bullseye suggests you have successfully completed an important milestone.

2. Two Arrow Designs

The exact meaning of a two arrow tattoo is extremely dependent on the wearer and what meaning they aim to convey to themselves and those viewing their ink.

A tattoo design with two arrows pointing in opposite directions represents war or conflict, with the concept dating back to Native American culture.

If the two arrows are crossed (and often utilized with a secondary compass tattoo or supporting image), the tattoo most likely represents friendship and camaraderie.

Many people get two crossed arrows as a dedication to someone they love or have a close relationship with. They also make brilliant matching tattoos for lovers, friends, or family members.

Two arrows in opposite directions may represent a conflict or war, but if the arrows form a cross, they will represent closeness. In chemistry, the opposite-pointing arrows represent equilibrium.

3. Three Arrow Tattoos

Three arrow tattoo pieces are often used to symbolize direction and movement during important decisions and life changes.

They can also be applied to tattoos amongst a trio of friends, especially when the three arrows cross at the midpoint of the shaft.

For some, a multitude of arrows – from two onwards – can be used in a matching arrow tattoo to depict the number of children or siblings in a family group.

4. A Broken Arrow Tattoo

An arrow with the tip broken off of it may seem like it represents defeat, but means it is the end of a skirmish, battle, or the complete culmination of war within.

When depicted broken into two or many pieces, the broken arrow tattoo becomes a symbol of peace, reconciliation, and a new chapter. After a time of conflict, a person surrenders their weapon with the goal of moving on toward more peaceful times.

5. A Bundle Of Arrows Tattoo Idea

A number of arrows grouped together in a bundle, or etched in a quiver, is usually a reference to being ready for battle.

Their collective strength also can be applied to tattoos exploring the concepts of strength, loyalty, and unity.

An arrow bundle also ties in with the Native American tribes that formed the Iroquois League, which furthers the concept of unity.

Images and Styles Supporting Arrow Tattoo Design

When the arrow design is made with different styles or application techniques it adds a distinctively contemporary twist to the design.

The far-reaching symbolic meanings of arrow tattoos mean that they make an excellent choice for expanding styles and tattoo ideas.

6. Bow and Arrow Tattoo Meanings

For those valuing strength or protection, a bow and arrow tattoo adds a rugged touch to any aesthetic.

A bow set to fire an arrow is considered a tattoo symbol of conflict and tension. The tension comes from the fully drawn bow, waiting to launch the arrow and create finality to an idea, relationship, or situation.

Bow and arrow symbol tattoos change their perspective the second they are shot at a target. Most often they are linked to positive momentum and decision making and can include ideas such as Cupid’s arrow, Zodiac tattoo, or even feather arrow designs.

7. Geometric Arrow Tattoo

A geometric style tattoo adds an element of innovation and uniqueness to almost any of the concepts outlined above. It’s rare to see two identical geometric arrows, while they can look fantastic encapsulated into 3D body art, linework style, and even mind-bending designs made into a matching tattoo.

Geometric arrow design is often etched in black, due to the high degree of line work involved. A blackwork tattoo often makes the lines stand out but also incorporates elements of negative space. They are an attractive and cost-effective method of bringing your arrow tattoo ideas to life on the skin.

8. American Traditional Arrow Tattoo

American traditional style arrow symbolism in tattoo art is often a cultural reference to Native American culture. The tribesman hunted for their family’s survival with the bow and arrow or protected their family with the bow and arrow during times of conflict.

The arrow travels in a straight path with righteous purpose, and a traditional arrow tattoo symbolizes focused forward movement with beauty and finesse.

Throughout history archers have relied on the aerodynamic design of the arrows to provide the direct and precise forward movement they needed to accurately hit their targets, ensuring the survival of their people with maximum efficiency and minimal suffering.

Paying close attention to the placement of the arrow is vitally important for obtaining the correct symbolism, especially the direction the arrow is pointing. An arrow pointing straight ahead refers to positive movement forward.

9. Compass Arrow Tattoo

Many people like to get simple or small arrow tattoos combined with a compass signifying north, south, east, and west.

In this design, the arrow symbolism involves traveling in a new direction (physically, mentally, or spiritually), and can reference anything from a new chapter in one’s life to a new relationship or career path.

For a simple arrow tattoo, the compass also signifies a yearning for home while away and provides a means to signify a connection to what people have left behind.

Compass arrow ink can also reference time travel or the past, present, and future ideals of the self, as well as the limitations that people have operated under previously.

10. Arrow Symbolism and Sagittarius Tattoo

Those born between November 23 and December 21 may have a special interest in the arrow tattoo, which is part of the symbol of the zodiac sign Sagittarius.

The Sagittarius sign is based on the silhouette of an archer drawing back the string of a bow, as old-time astrologers read the shape of the constellation in the night sky.

Those born under the Sagittarius sign are said to be optimistic, intelligent, personality-driven, and lovers of fun and travel, that speak truthfully with little artifice.

The Sagittarius arrow tattoo can represent the relationship between heaven and earth, surety and plain-speaking, or just a simple note that you are a part of the Zodiac Sagittarius symbol.