The Laurel Wreath Tattoo Meaning and 110 Crowning Design Ideas

The laurel wreath tattoo is usually associated with commemorating academia, victory, and even royalty.

Greek art is absolutely one of my favorite topics and I have spent a lot of time researching the meaning behind laurel wreaths in artwork. So, I love designing laurel wreaths for clients and even giving them a quick history lesson if they are in the mood.

In this post, I will explain the laurel wreath tattoo meaning and show you some beautiful tattoo designs to choose from as well.

The Meanings Attached to the Laurel Wreath and Laurel Wreath Tattoo

The laurel wreath has been around for around 2000 years so there are a few different meanings associated with this symbol.

What Does the Laurel Wreath Symbolize in Greek Mythology?

It is believed that the laurel wreath originated from Ancient Greece. The laurel wreath is a symbol of the Greek God Apollo.

According to Greek mythology, Apollo was obsessed with a beautiful nymph named Daphne. Daphne, however, didn't reciprocate Apollo's feelings and ran away from him.

He pursued her and to get away from him, Daphne turned herself into a laurel tree. Apollo came across the tree and cut off a branch from the laurel tree.

According to Ovid's Metamorphosis, Apollo claims:

“Although you cannot be my wife, you shall at least be my tree; I shall always wear you on my hair, on my quiver, O Laurel.”

So, in case you were wondering:

What laurel leaves mean?

Now you know!

The Evolution of the Laurel Wreath Meaning in Ancient Greece

The laurel wreath may initially have been a symbol for Apollo's love for Daphne. However, according to the mythology, Apollo was also the god of poets and writers.

As a result, poets and writers who won competitions were awarded with the laurel wreath. Even today we refer to a poet laureate due to this reason.

This is also why laurel wreaths are still a symbol for academia and graduation ceremonies. In Sweden, honorary doctorates wear laurels and in Finland, those that complete their master's degree are given a laurel wreath as well.

Why do Italians wear a laurel wreath?

For this very reason! It is still quite common for Italian graduates to proudly bear a laurel wreath.

In this sense, your laurel wreath tattoo could have to do with an academic accomplishment. Perhaps you graduated college and are proud of your success. Or, you could have gone far in any academic field and want to celebrate what you have achieved.

The laurel wreath tattoo can have particular meaning to poets, writers, and masters of the English language or any language.

The Laurel Wreath and Accomplishments

The popularity of the laurel wreath quickly caught on and an increasing number of professions were awarded with a wreath.

This included distinctions in the military.

However, what the laurel wreath was mostly a symbol of athletics and athletic competitions. In particular, the laurel wreath was closely connected to the Olympic Games.

As these games were held in Olympia, the laurel leaves were from olive trees which were common to the region.

If you're someone who takes sports or physical activities very seriously or competes on a professional level, the laurel wreath tattoo has the perfect meaning for you.

It could be a reminder for you to strive for the top place or prize. If you have won many medals or competitions, then the laurel wreath tattoo can be a way of showcasing your accomplishments or a symbol of them.

The Laurel Wreath in Ancient Rome

As you may have noticed, Julius Caesar is often depicted wearing a laurel wreath around his head. Of course, Caesar was Roman.

Well, due to trade and travel, the traditions of Ancient Greek culture were often transferred to Ancient Rome.

As a result, generals of the Roman Empire who had great success in battles were given laurels to wear. If the general had freed a besieged army, the soldiers would make a laurel from the foliage on the battleground and present it to the general.

It is due to this that laurel wreaths and the laurel tattoo was a sign of victory.

If you're a soldier or general, a laurel wreath tattoo can be a tasteful way to signify your service, dedication, and sacrifice to your country.

Of course, the battle that you took part in doesn't have to be physical or literal. If you have battled your demons and come out on top then a laurel wreath tattoo will serve you nicely.

Even certain emperors were known to wear a laurel. This tradition was even continued by the British monarchy. King George I, George II, and Queen Elizabeth II were all pictured on coins with laurel wreaths.

In this instance, the laurel wreath tattoo can be a symbol of your self-worth. This ink can be a great way to remind yourself to hold your head up high as you are worthy of being treated in a kind and respectful way.

Interestingly enough, the word laurel can sometimes have a negative association. Anyone who is taking advantage of their fame, position, or past accomplishments will be referred to as someone who is resting on their laurels.

In this instance, a laurel wreath tattoo could be a good way to remind yourself not to get comfortable in your current position. Instead, you should keep working hard and pushing ahead and to earn any future accreditation or success.

Laurel Wreath Tattoo Designs

Here are the laurel wreath tattoo design ideas that you should consider:

Minimalistic Laurel Wreath Tattoos

Do you want to keep your laurel tattoo as simple as possible? Then a minimalistic tattoo design is the way to go.

This kind of laurel leaf tattoo can actually be rather tasteful and sophisticated. It is also a great way to get a small laurel wreath tattoo.

Remember that just because you choose a simple design doesn't take away from the symbolism of the laurel wreath tattoo in any way. It can still be a sign of academia, accomplishments, or anything else that you wish.

Here is the body art that you can draw inspiration from:

Laurel Wreath Tattoos Around the Neck

If you're looking for a more traditional laurel wreath tattoo, you may want to get one tattooed around your neck. Although the wreath was traditionally placed on the head, it was sometimes placed around the neck as well.

A laurel wreath tattoo around the neck can be a great way to link the olden and modern times together. It can be a symbol of any kind of success in your life.

A laurel wreath tattoo in such a prominent place can make quite the statement. It is a great reminder for you to treat yourself as the champion that you are.

Here are the tattoos that you can check out for your own laurel wreath tattoo design:

Laurel Wreath Tattoos Around the Knee

As I mentioned, laurel wreaths around the neck can be a rather bold look and this isn't something that everyone is into. What's more, this kind of laurel wreath tattoo is quite large and you may be after something a little smaller.

If this is the case, getting a laurel wreath tattoo around one or both knees is a good alternative. What's great about this placement is that the area close to your knee looks a great deal like the neck.

Due to this, you can maintain the symbolism of the laurel wreath tattoo without having to go all out with your ink.

Laurel Wreath Tattoos with Phrases

As we have found out, the laurel wreath and the laurel wreath tattoo is a sign of significance. It is only placed around someone who has accomplished something truly great.

Due to this, it only makes sense to place it around phrases or quotes that you find especially powerful. When printing these words on your body and surrounding it with a laurel wreath tattoo, you are guaranteeing that this is not a saying you will forget.

While it's quite common to use certain phrases, you can also place a name in the middle of your laurel wreath tattoo. This works well for a spouse, child, a parent, or any loved one.

Laurel Wreath Tattoos with Numerals

It goes without saying that numbers are quite important to people. You have lucky numbers, birthdays, years, and so on. Each of these varying numerals have different significance to each person.

So, if there is an important number or a few numbers, it makes sense to decorate it with a laurel wreath tattoo.

Here are some of the laurel wreath tattoo ideas that you can borrow for your own tattoo:

Now that you know the meaning behind the laurel wreath tattoo, you are all set to get one. This is especially since you know the different designs you can get as well.