Elephant tattoo meaning is inextricably linked with wisdom and memory, and the importance and protection of family. 

Elephant symbolism can also reference Africa, but also has significant ties to tattoo mandala expressions of the Hindu religion and other Eastern philosophies.

Whether it’s a large-sized realistic depiction of a massive gray elephant, or a colorful elephant more cartoonish in nature, there are many interpretations your elephant meaning can take in symbolism, style, placement, and application technique.

Read on to examine the meanings tattoo lovers ascribe to the elephant and find inspiration for crafting the perfect elephant tattoo design.

Symbolic Elephant Tattoo Meanings

1. What Does an Elephant Tattoo Symbolize?

Elephants are often used to represent wisdom in tattoo design. Their vaunted memory and long lifespan feed into this ideal, and their natural look means realistic tattoos are often used to illustrate this. 

If you want to establish a gargantuan presence with just a little ink, then it may be the day for you to receive an elephant tattoo. 

There are a variety of welcomed variations attached to this distinguished mammal.

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2. Elephant Meaning Within Family Tattoos

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The gigantic size of the elephant, and their relationship as a herd – you often see elephants “holding hands” and the mother elephant protecting the calves when under threat – also represent strength, family and loyalty. 

An Elephant family tattoo is a popular design choice due to their protective instincts when the herd is threatened, or the timeless images of them traveling trunk to tail in family groups across the wilderness. 

This sense of family in elephant tattoo ideas can be demonstrated in a variety of different ways, from realistic elephant family tattoos right through to tribal elephant tattoos or a cute baby elephant cartoon piece.