Tattoo Meanings {P}

Padlock - This is a perennial style of tattoo that has never really faded. It is usually depicted with hearts and is meant to suggest that only one person can unlock the wearer's heart or there is only one true love.

Pah Kwa - This is an ancient Chinese symbol said to ward off evil. It is depicted as a Yin Yang symbol surrounded by eight trigrams from the I Ching.

Panther - Panthers are fierce creatures and as such are worn by people who like to portray an image of strength and courage. They have also been adopted by the 'Black Panthers' a group of black radicals in the sixties. As tattoos they were popular years ago but seem to be back.

Parrot - Parrots have always held a special place with people because of their bright colors, intelligence and ability to speak in some cases. As tattoos they have always been popular because of their vivid colors.

Pegasus - This is a legendary Greek creature shown as a white horse with wings. It has many associations with agility and the spirit world.

Pentagram - This is a five pointed star which has connections with magic and witchcraft. It is used as a form of protection by those who practice the craft and in its inverted form is a symbol of evil.

Phoenix - A mythological bird that is rich in meaning in quite a few different cultures. It is most known for its ability to rise from the ashes, and is a symbol of death and rebirth into immortality.

Pierced Heart - A quintessential symbol of being in love. Shot from the arrow of Cupid it can suggest penetration and physical love too.

Pirate Ship - This is a ship flying the black flag with skull and crossbones. It is a common tattoo in the old and new school varieties because of its bold outlines.

Popeye - Popeye is the famous sailor cartoon character which has been around since the late 1920's. Popeye has come to be a popular tattoo ever since, because of his associate with strength, fighting and saving Olive Oyl.

Pyramids - One of the wonders of the world build by the ancient Egyptians. They have become popular as tattoos for their link with ancient wisdom and connection with the past.