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In search of centipede tattoo designs? Well, you are in the right place! Find the best centipede tattoos for men and women, all in one place.
Centipedes are fascinating creatures, with their name literally translating to “100 feet“, even though not all centipedes have 100 legs.
Over time, men and women have gotten centipede tattoos to signify a variety of meanings. However, the centipede tattoo meaning is most commonly associated with power, as Native Americans believed centipedes were able to travel between the real world and the underworld.
That being said, different cultures in the world interpret a centipede, and consequently a centipede tattoo, in their own way. For instance, in the Philippines, a centipede tattoo is a mark of safety. In the Batok tradition which originated in Southeast Asia, the centipede symbol is that of protection and spirituality. Centipedes are also representatives of good luck in some cultures.
Check out these popular centipede tattoos and pick the one that matches well with your preference!
Skull Centipede Tattoo
If you are looking for an awesome tattoo idea, that instantly grabs all the attention, check out this idea. In this tattoo, the body of the centipede has been made out of skulls. The yellow colour of the body and red and black legs are mimicking the true colours of a few centipede species. The skull symbol which is associated with death, and the centipede which forms a connection with the underworld, are fitting together perfectly.
Traditional Centipede Tattoo
For those who like traditional designs which do not incorporate a lot of elements, this tattoo is perfect. The shading done in this tattoo is giving it quite a rustic look. The size of this tattoo makes it quite hard to miss. You can ask your tattoo artist to design this in a smaller size if that is what you want.
Sleeve Centipede Tattoo
Sleeve tattoos are a big commitment, so you should only get one when you have found a design that looks like art. This tattoo fits just that requirement. The way the centipede here has been made to look like it is wrapped around the arm is quite unique. To add to that, the colours used are making this tattoo resemble the Japanese centipede species. All in all, this design is quite beautiful and you shouldn’t think twice before getting it inked on your body.
Heart Centipede Tattoo
A simple centipede tattoo where the centipede has curved in a way to resemble a heart is surely a different kind of way to depict this kind of tattoo. Hearts are a very popular symbol and combining that with a centipede enhances the centipede’s symbolism of good luck. Additionally, this tattoo has been made to look like a sketch, which is quite an awesome style of tattoo these days.
Vibrant Floral Centipede Tattoo
Floral patterns are always a work of art. Hence, this centipede tattoo depicting the centipede on top of a large and beautiful flower will surely work wonders for you. The colour of the centipede and the flowers are going beautifully with each other. The use of different kinds of ink is giving this tattoo a vibrant appeal. You could also get this inked on your back or leg.
Minimalistic Centipede Tattoo
If you are looking for centipede tattoo designs that are minimalistic, check out this tattoo right here. Only the outline of the centipede has been created, with no added detailing. Black ink is the perfect choice for such a tattoo. Designs like this are ideal for people who like to see the simpler versions of everything. You can get this done by an artist in no time.
Chains Centipede Tattoo
Up next, if you want a unique kind of centipede tattoo, check this one out. A chain tattoo meaning is usually related to defeat, while in several cultures, centipedes stand for leaders and warriors. Therefore, a design like this could mean, even when you face defeat you still continue to be a warrior. The gradient shading for the chain is surely making the whole tattoo more beautiful.
Centipede Tribal Tattoo
If you are into tribal tattoos, this centipede tattoo will surely fit your preference. The way that centipede has been designed here, is making it look like a tribal tattoo. The yellow and black patterns on the body of the creature are the perfect use of coloured ink. The legs of the centipede have also been inked quite boldly in this tattoo, giving this design a fuller appearance. You can very well get this tattooed on your forearm where it reaches till your hand, as pictured.
Centipede Eye Tattoo
Interested in a tattoo that gives a psychedelic effect? Look at this amazing design. The body of the centipede has been made with eyes, which is giving this tattoo quite a distinct and rare look. The iris and pupil in each eye have been done with dotted lines. The legs of the centipede also have some dotted shade work. A tattoo like this is nothing short of art and is timeless.
Japanese Centipede Tattoo
This tattoo features a traditional Japanese mask worn by actors on stage and a centipede. Interestingly, the top half of the tattoo seems to incorporate Scorpion claws. Scorpion tattoos are associated with good luck in different cultures. Also, the Japanese meaning of centipedes is related to warfare. Hence, this tattoo with the two creatures is one of a kind, as it is packed with meanings. The detailing on the mask and the use of black ink to make this design so bold is making this tattoo absolutely perfect. You can get this inked on your arm as pictured, or a smaller version of this on your hand.
Now that you know about the different kinds of centipede tattoos popular throughout the world, you can easily pick a tattoo that suits your taste. Centipedes look like scary creatures, but the meanings they hold are quite profound. You can combine your centipede tattoo with other meaningful symbols or artistic patterns. You can also add personalised touches to your tattoo, to make it more tailored towards you. You could also take inspiration from the following tattoo ideas:
- Centipede tattoos for your back
- Centipede lady tattoos
- Centipede tattoos for around your ear
- Centipede dragon tattoos
feature image from Pinterest
