Lock and Key Tattoo Meaning
A lock keeps something safe; a key opens it. Together they are one of the clearest symbols of love — and alone, each has its own meaning.
Love and the key to the heart
A heart-shaped lock and a key are one of the most popular couple tattoos: one person wears the lock, the other the key. It says that only one person can open the wearer's heart. Love locks fastened to bridges in many cities carry the same idea.
Secrets and protection
A lock alone can stand for something kept safe or private — memories, faith, a part of oneself that is not for everyone. It can also mean a closed chapter.
The key: opportunity and knowledge
A key opens doors. It stands for opportunity, freedom, knowledge and the answer to a problem. An old ornate skeleton key adds the feeling of history and mystery.
The keys of Saint Peter
In the Gospel of Matthew Jesus gives Peter "the keys of the kingdom of heaven". Two crossed keys, one gold and one silver, became the emblem of Saint Peter and of the papacy. Crossed keys carry this religious meaning of faith and the gate of heaven.
Lock and key Tattoo Questions
What does a lock and key tattoo symbolize?
Love and a bond that only two people share; the lock alone can mean secrets or protection, the key opportunity.
What does a key tattoo mean?
Opportunity, freedom, knowledge, or the key to someone's heart.
What do crossed keys mean?
The keys of the kingdom of heaven given to Saint Peter, the emblem of the papacy.