Tattoo
/tæˈtuː/noun
A permanent mark made on the skin by inserting ink, dyes, or pigments.
Did you know?The term 'tattoo' derives from the Tahitian word 'tatu,' meaning 'to mark,' linking it to ancient rites of passage and spiritual ceremonies.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*teh₂d-
“to touch, feel, or mark”
Tahitian
Tahitian
tatu
“to mark or strike”
18th Century
English
tattoo
“an act of marking the skin with ink as part of a cultural or ceremonial practice”
Modern English
English
tattoo
“a permanent design on the skin, often linked to personal expression or identity”