Every picture tells a story, but every tattoo tells a few. Part of the beauty of tattoos is that they allow us to express something about ourselves without words. We love those tattoos that carry not only the looks, but also a story within them. We constantly find ourselves wanting to know more about the why, when, where and what behind the ink we see on other people. Whatever the reason for your tattoo, it’s always great to know more about the meanings behind it great symbols of our time and times past, so that you can be inspired to put a unique spin on your own design.

And because animal tattoos are today’s skin-ink favorite, we’re going to help you navigate through the jungle of ink ideas, bringing you the most beautiful animal tattoo ideas the internet has ever seen. And the almighty lion, the king of the animals and the symbol of strength and power couldn’t miss from our list.  Below, we’ve compiled a gallery with some amazing lion tattoos, explaining the meanings behind this popular tattoo choice – check it out and maybe you’ll find inspiration for your own awesome, meaningful, lion tattoo design!

What are the meanings of lion tattoos?

If you want to highlight specific aspects of your personality, animal tattoos make a great choice. So what will a lion tattoo tell about you? The symbolic meaning of lions, as one might imagine, primarily deals with strength, courage and leadership. A lion is rightfully known as the ‘king of animals’. Its majestic look exhibits strengths, and a roar from him is enough to send shivers down one’s spine. While a male lion is a symbol of power and might, a lioness is the Great Mother and Protector. In the realm of animal tattoo symbolism, the lion wins the prize for most relentless fighter in the face of life challenges. Wearing a lion tattoo means that you’re ready for trouble, and not seeking it out.  Having the true heart of a lion is being the master over yourself, acting from your values, and staying in integrity.

If you want a lion tattoo, you should also know that many interpretations emphasize lion’s dual nature. A lion is the embodiment of the Son of God as well as the force of evil, ᴄʀᴜᴇʟᴛʏ and savagery. It is powerful in protecting his own and fierce in attacking his prey. Similarly, the lion can be both lunar and solar, being a creature who is most active during twilight. Also, a lion tattoo reveals a sense of pride,  lions being sometimes associated with contempt and vanity.

Since time immemorial, people have drawn inferences regarding the characteristics, behavior, and features of lions and used them in lion symbolism. Lions have been used in art and mythology as guardians, judges and magical beings – interpretations that can be applied for lion tattoos as well.

Top 50 lion tattoos to wear with pride

If you’re already convinced that you want a lion tattoo but have no idea which design is good, you’re in the right place. If you’re not yet convinced but definitely interested, you’re still in the right place. Here, you’ll get some good ideas for your soon-to-be lion tattoo. Wear your tattoo with pride and express your beliefs through one of these inspirational lion tattoo designs.

Daring Lioness Tattoos for Women

Lioness tattoos carry a great symbolism of motherhood, femininity and strength. If the lion is the king, the lioness is definitely the queen. A female lion is an encapsulation of both minding and savagery. A lioness is minding when she is nursing her offspring and brutal when getting her prey.  The lioness tattoos are as powerful and noteworthy as the beast itself.