Feather Tattoo Meaning
A single feather carries the idea of flight without the bird. As a tattoo it stands for freedom, truth and the presence of someone who is gone.
Freedom and lightness
Feathers belong to the sky. A feather tattoo speaks of freedom, of lightness after carrying something heavy, and of the wish to rise above circumstances.
The feather of truth
In ancient Egypt the goddess Ma'at, keeper of truth and order, wore an ostrich feather. In the judgment of the dead the heart was weighed against her feather — a heart lighter than the feather passed into the afterlife. A feather can stand for honesty and a clear conscience.
Angel feathers and memory
Many people believe that a white feather found unexpectedly is a sign from a loved one who has died. A feather with a name or a date is a common memorial tattoo, often joined with angel wings or doves.
The quill and feathers turning into birds
A quill pen stands for writing, poetry and the power of words. A feather that breaks apart into flying birds is a popular design for freedom, change and letting go.
Feather Tattoo Questions
What does a feather tattoo symbolize?
Freedom, lightness, truth, and often the memory of a loved one.
What does a feather turning into birds mean?
Freedom, change and letting go.
What does a feather mean in ancient Egypt?
Truth and justice — the feather of the goddess Ma'at against which the heart was weighed.