Ambigram tattoos have become hugely popular among tattoo lovers
. This intriguing and complex form of body art has a lot of mystery surrounding it, making it one of the most sought-after designs among tattoo artists and enthusiasts all around the world.
Ambigram tattoos can be flipped, mirrored, or inverted and, in some cases, can have different customized elements. They include words designed in a way that they remain the same no matter what direction they are viewed from. Another variation of an ambigram tattoo is when the tattoo reflects one word at a certain angle and another at a different angle.
The visual symmetry of an ambigram tattoo makes it a lot more appealing than its usual counterparts. If you are floored by these tattoos, take a look at some of our top picks of ambigram tattoo designs.
What Is An Ambigram Tattoo?
Imagine a tattoo that spells “faith” when you look at it straight on, but then flips to read “hope” when viewed upside down. That is the mind-bending world of ambigrams.
Ambigram tattoos are designs where different words or symbols can be read from different angles. They are designed with a special kind of symmetry or mirror effect. This allows the word to remain readable even when viewed upside down.
People enjoy getting them inked for their unique and sometimes mysterious look. For some, it is a playful way to showcase a love for wordplay. For others, it might represent a concept with dual meanings that can be read depending on the onlooker’s perspective. Keep reading to learn more about this concept in the next section.
Who Invented Ambigrams?
Ambigrams do not have a single inventor. While these mind-bending designs have been around for centuries, the term “ambigram” itself is relatively new.
It is believed cognitive scientist Douglas Hofstadter, known for his book “Gödel, Escher, Bach,” popularized the term in the 1980s.
So, while we might not have a single inventor to hail, ambigrams continue to fascinate artists and tattoo enthusiasts alike. Scroll below to discover some interesting ambigram tattoos!
32 Best Ambigram Tattoo Ideas
Take a look at some of the beautiful ambigram tattoos in this collection and pick the one or ones that you would like to get for your next tattoo venture!
1. Ambigram Tattoos For Females
This tattoo features a captivating design where the words “love” and “pain” intertwine. When viewed upright, it reads “love,” but upon turning the wrist, it transforms into “pain.” This powerful imagery symbolizes the complex relationship between love and pain. Love can bring immense joy, but it can also lead to heartbreak.
2. Loyalty Ambigram Tattoo
This tattoo showcases a clever ambigram where the words “loyalty” and “family” become one. It reveals “loyalty” when read straight on and transforms into “family” when flipped upside down. This design symbolizes the unwavering commitment that binds a family together. It emphasizes that family offers a constant source of strength.
3. Angel Devil Ambigram Tattoo
This ambigram tattoo presents an ambigram where “angel” and “devil” morph into each other. It symbolizes the duality within all of us. We possess the capacity for both good and evil. We are capable of being compassionate and selfish. The tattoo represents this constant internal struggle, and the choices we make that shape the person we become.
4. Life Death Ambigram Tattoo
This tattoo showcases an ambigram where “life” and “death” interweave. It symbolizes the cyclical nature of existence. Life and death are not finite ends, but rather interconnected parts of a continuous journey. The ambigram emphasizes the impermanence of life. It reminds us to cherish each moment while acknowledging the inevitable impermanence of life.
5. ‘Mother’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @ink_chasers
This tattoo is fairly common among people who have a strong connection with their mothers and are deeply inspired by them. It also represents the sacrifices a woman goes through and depicts the affection, compassion, kindness, and love between a mom and her kid(s). Express your love for your mother by getting this ambigram tattoo inked. The best thing about this tattoo? It reads “mother” on one side and “father” on the other.
6. ‘Father’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @shreytripathii
This is a rotational ambigram design that uses a single word that reads the same, regardless of the viewing angle. This image tattooed in reverse aims to honor a father’s contribution by representing protection, love, and bonding. This is a wonderful way to let your father know how much he means to you.
7. Mirror Ambigram Tattoos
Image: Instagram @tattoofrida
You would have seen this type of mirror image design on many signboards, advertisements, and creative graphic design images. It is a fairly common technique used by tattoo artists, where a word, when reflected in the mirror, can show another word with a contrasting meaning. The tattoo above shows “love” and “pain” when looked at from two different angles and perspectives.
8. ‘Love’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @chicagoneven
There are various reasons one can choose to get the word “love” tattooed – love for your partner, immense love for your family and friends, affection for your pets, or just showing your romantic side in general. It shows that you are driven by the force of love. This ambigram tattoo is an absolute head-turner. It also reads ‘Hate’ from another angle, which signifies the duality of human emotions in a beautiful display of wordplay.
9. Rotational Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram
This is a typography design where the word or phrase is rotated to a fixed degree, usually 180 degrees or less. There are times when a word takes a completely opposite meaning when rotated. However, there are others that are the same word viewed from either angle. You have to tap into your creative side when planning this design.
Quick Tip
Words such as family, love, the world is mine, loyalty, respect, etc. are also perfect for rotational ambigram designs.
10. Chain Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @projectblackwork
This is one of those lettering ambigram tattoos that look nice on everyone, regardless of age, gender, or skin tone. The tattooing is done using interlinked words to form a chain-like structure. The initial letters of each word are overlapped with each other, which means that one word will start before the other ends. They are mostly done in the shape of a circle or diamond.
11. ‘Strength’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram
Many people choose to get tattoos of words that inspire them or things that they look up to for positivity. The image above has two words in one tattoo – strength and courage. It shows that having strength and courage can assist you in dealing with the adversities of life and help you come out a winner. This design is usually done on the forearm.
12. Name Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram
There are various reasons one would get a name inked on their skin – whether it is your own name, the name of your parents, your partner’s name, or the name of your beloved pet. Name tattoos are a way of personal expression. The name you choose to get tattooed is one that is most close to you. While these ambigram tattoos are usually done in black, you can play around with color combinations to make it even more appealing.
Fun Fact
Ambigram tattoos became a trend in the late 1990s after the release of the movie The Matrix. In the film, Keanu Reeve’s character Neo has an ambigram tattoo of the word “free” on his arm.
13. ‘Beautiful-Disaster’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @_tattoojoey
This tattoo is another one in the long list of exciting ambigram tattoo ideas that would look great on any individual. There are a number of ways you can get this tattoo done. You can either get one word on each forearm or combine the two words in one tattoo. You can also have both words next to each other on the same arm.
14. Optical Illusion Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @joeycreepxide
Most of us have been intrigued by the idea of optical illusion as kids. Even now, some of us can’t take our eyes or minds off such patterns. This ambigram tattoo is made in the shape of a skull, and is a bit trippy when you look at it closely. If you are looking for a tattoo that can be the talk of the town, consider this one. This mind-bending optical illusion tattoo is a standout choice that is sure to captivate attention.
15. ‘Alive-Dead’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @opinione.tattoo
This tattoo derives its inspiration from cultures that give equal importance to life and life after death. The concept of life and death being two sides of the same coin has interested humans forever. While some see these states as a circle, others may consider them polar opposites. If this is a subject that arouses your intrigue as well, it might be time to give this design a try.
16. ‘Faith-Hope-Love’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @grafotattoos
This is an example of a chain ambigram tattoo, where the three words “faith,” “hope,” and “love” are arranged in the shape of a diamond. This tattoo exudes positivity that one needs in the difficult times of life. This tattoo is best done on the thighs, chest, or back.
17. Ambigram Love Hate Tattoo
Image: Instagram @chicagoneven
This one is a classic ambigram tattoo. It has two words in one tattoo, and both words are opposites of each other. The phrases love and hate combined together serve as a reminder that if someone can learn to hate, they are also capable of love. If treated well and given enough courage, a cynical person can turn into a beautiful soul.
18. ‘Family Forever’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @zarahisabel
In this world of time crunches and constant work pressure, we often forget our roots that make us what we are. It is important to realize that family is the only thing that will stay by your side when the entire world is against you. The ‘Family-Forever’ ambigram tattoo expresses a deep connection with one’s family. It can give strength in tough times when your family cannot be physically present around you. The ribs, forearm, and sleeves are the perfect places to sport this tattoo.
19. Dual Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @boldcrafttattoo
This tattoo is common among couples who amalgamate their names into one using the ambigram design technique. This can be done to express love, connection, and romance. This is a cute little gesture you can do for your partner exactly as the individual has done in this image, where the names “Aryan” and “Aisha” have been combined into a single design. Add a unique touch to your relationship by flaunting this stylish tattoo on your arm.
20. Zodiac Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @empathxy444
People who are fascinated by astrology and strongly believe in the power of zodiac signs can get this tattoo done. Many believe that zodiac predictions are true, and there is a strong relationship between an individual and their zodiac symbol. To channel this energy, many enthusiasts choose to get a zodiac ambigram tattoo, mostly on their arms, wrists, or neck.
21. Cross Design Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram
This one is for individuals who are highly spiritual and strongly believe in Christianity. It is also considered by many as a weapon against evil and used as protection against it. This tattoo looks absolutely breathtaking on the shoulder. Choose any size, shape, and design that you like and brainstorm with your tattoo artist to convert it into a beautiful ambigram tattoo.
22. Elements Of The Universe Tattoo
Image: Instagram @jerome.tattoo
The four elements of the universe – the earth, air, fire, and water – are considered critical forces to sustain life and aid the physical and psychological well-being of humans. This design is usually inked to channel the power and strength of these elements into your personal life. You can get it done on your sleeve, arm, hand, back, or chest.
23. ‘Always-Forever’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @inkduptattooparlor
Always and forever is a millennial phrase to represent a bond between family, friends, or partners that is hoped to last a lifetime. It depicts the beauty of the many relations that we value in our lives. You can see here that the couple has inked their forearms with a rotational ‘always forever’ ambigram tattoo, depicting their love for each other.
24. Contrasting Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram
There are times in life when an individual needs to put on a brave face, even in the worst possible situations. This is mostly so that the people around them do not experience sadness or worry because of their personal issues. However, it is not usually difficult to decode the pain behind a certain smile. For instance, this tattoo says, “I am fine” and “save me” in the same tattoo, making it clear that if we look closely, we can figure out if someone needs our help. This tattoo looks great on the thigh or wrist.
25. “Believe-Dream” Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram @theofficial_inkfiend
This is one of those ambigram tattoos that use a motivational phrase intended for all the believers out there. Millions of people are struggling to do well with their lives and pursue their passion. This tattoo reminds every individual that there is a lot of potential in them, and if they just choose to believe in themselves and the path they have chosen, their dream will be at an arm’s length in no time. This tattoo done on the forearm motivates you to hustle to find yourself living the dream that you see for yourself.
26. ‘Saint-Sinner’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram
This tattoo has two contrasting words. It reads ‘saint’ from one side and ‘sinner’ from the other. It is used to remind people of their achievements and regrets as human beings. Basically, it means that we have all done things we are proud of, making us equivalent to saints. However, we have also had a few wrongdoings, synonymous with a sinner. Every person has both sides to them.
27. ‘Hope-Faith’ Tattoo
Image: Instagram @nightmaretattoo
This ambigram tattoo is a sign of encouragement and motivation. This consists of the word ‘faith’ written in such a way that it reads ‘hope’ from the other end. It is an example of a mirror tattoo. Hope is an acute desire for a thing to happen, whereas faith is confidence in something currently happening. You can get this tattoo on your wrist or forearm.
28. Carpe Diem Tattoo
Image: Instagram @merakitattoomza
The Latin translation of ‘carpe diem’ means “seize the day.” This phrase is also associated with happiness. This tattoo here on the forearm should act as a motivational script to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. It is an incredibly inspiring tattoo that also represents your attitude towards life.
29. ‘Sisters-Friends’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Instagram
There is nothing more comforting than having a sibling who knows you inside-out and is your true best friend. Having a sister who’s your pal through the crazy walks of life is a blessing. This tattoo is an all-time favorite as it celebrates the beautiful bond between sisters. Go ahead and get this funky font tattoo inked on your wrist, underarm, or ribs, and flaunt your love for your sister.
30. 3-Dimensional Ambigram Tattoos
Image: Instagram @spiral.tattoo
Who doesn’t love realistic 3D tattoos? 3D calligraphy ambigram tattoos combine the uniqueness of a regular 3D tattoo as well as that of an ambigram. You can opt for any phrase of your liking and come up with a 3D ambigram version to sport on your upper back.
31. Ambigram Face Tattoo
Image: Instagram
This is the unique one out of the list. Taking the ambigram style up a notch, you can create the face of a person or a figure of your choice and design another facial expression right on the bottom of it, linking both the designs. This tattoo uses a sane face and combines it with a devil’s face to showcase two different aspects of the same personality.
32. ‘Blessed-Cursed’ Ambigram Tattoo
Image: Shutterstock
This design is the perfect example of how visual symmetry can convey contrasting messages. When viewed one way, it spells out ‘Blessed’, serving as a reminder of the positive aspects of life, gratitude, and the good fortunes we encounter. Contrasting that, when flipped, it transforms into ‘Cursed’, symbolizing the trials and tribulations that life throws at us. The duality of this ambigram highlights the intricacies of the human experience, acknowledging that life is a mix of blessings and challenges. This tattoo is not only a work of art but also a personal reflection of the wearer’s perspective of life. It is a reminder that one’s outlook can shift, and the ambivalence of existence is part of what makes it beautiful and complex.
The versatility of ambigram tattoos is the main reason for their popularity. It is important to remember that you take proper care before and after getting a tattoo to prevent infections or issues.
Discover the captivating art of ambigram tattoos, showcasing stunning designs of names and words that cleverly transform and mirror themselves. Check out the video to know more!
Infographic: Top 8 Ambigram Tattoo Designs That’ll Make You Flip
Ambigram tattoos are artistic expressions of the complex duality of existence. These tattoos that can be flipped, mirrored, or inverted are incredibly versatile and provide a meaningful avenue for your creative energy. Check out the infographic for a collection of ambigram tattoo ideas for your upcoming ink.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The flexibility and functionality of ambigram tattoos are what make them so popular. They are a cool way to express your creativity through symbolism. The dual nature of life can be beautifully captured in an ambigram tattoo. It is critical to seek the advice of an experienced professional to ensure that the design you create will effectively express your emotions and intentions. It’s fun to get a tattoo, but always make sure that you do it with a professional and clean tattoo artist. Take some precautions before and after getting a tattoo to have the best healing process as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get an ambigram tattoo?
You should go for an ambigram tattoo in a well-known tattoo parlor with someone who is well-versed in doing these tattoos. You can have one or more done in any size and style as per your preference.
What is the difference between a palindrome and an ambigram?
An ambigram is a sequence of letters or numbers that looks the same if you flip it across horizontally or vertically. However, a palindrome is a series that reads the same across the vertical axis.
Can any word or phrase be turned into an ambigram tattoo?
Yes, you can turn a phrase or a word into an ambigram tattoo with the help of a professional tattoo artist. Preferably, look for a professional specialized in lettering.
How can I choose the right font for my Ambigram tattoo?
With the professional of your choice, pick a font that defines your personality and the emotion behind the tattoo. Ensure that the font is readable and looks good from all angles.
How do I ensure my ambigram tattoo is readable and legible from different angles?
After finishing the design, ask the tattoo artist to make the decal and check by looking in the mirror if the size and legibility are in line with what you would like to have on your skin.
Can ambigram tattoos be covered up or modified in the future?
Yes, tattoos can be covered or removed later. However, keep in mind that the larger or more complicated the tattoo is, the more difficult and expensive it will be to remove or cover it up later.
Can ambigram tattoos be done in color, or are they usually black and white?
Yes, ambigram tattoos can be done in color as well. Although, commonly these tattoos are done in black or darker colors for visibility.
Are ambigram tattoos more difficult or expensive to get than other tattoo designs?
Yes, ambigram tattoos can be more expensive than other tattoos. That’s because those are more difficult to design, execute, and create. They require higher levels of precision, skill, and time for the desired outcome.
Key Takeaways
Ambigram tattoos are unique and feature elements that are flipped, mirrored, or inverted. These tattoos not only feature writings but may also contain optical and facial illusions, words arranged in geometric shapes, and zodiac signs. Get a skilled tattoo artist to design your ambigram tattoo, then get it tested and checked from all angles before going ahead with the design.
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Brik Rangel is a highly skilled tattoo artist who has 12 years of experience in the field. She specializes in transformative tattoo makeovers and cover-ups. After honing her craft in São Paulo, Brazil, she now works as a tattoo artist and manager at Manhattan Tattoos in New York, and as a tattoo artist at Divine Tattoos in New Jersey.
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Jyotsana Rao is an engineering graduate from NIT, Nagpur, who discovered her love for writing during her undergraduate days. She is passionate about writing about everything related to beauty – makeup, fashion, hairstyles, skin care, or hair care and has 4 years of experience on writing in these genres.
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Subhrojyoti is an associate editor at StyleCraze with four years of experience. He has a master’s degree in English from Presidency University, Kolkata, and has also done a post-graduate certificate course in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University, Kolkata.
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Shreya is a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience. After graduating from Christ University, Bengaluru, she started as a writer for a non-profit organization, Bhumi, as an intern. She then wrote for a progressive content website.
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