97 Mind-Altering Memento Mori Tattoos To Try In 2024 (2024)

In the world of tattoos, nearly any artwork, even those that are transparent and carry no metaphoric value whatsoever, is acceptable. In fact, as long as the design means something to someone, nothing should stop the wearer or enthusiast from turning that ink into a permanent one.

Quote tattoos have become quite popular. Although most comprise iconic phrases from unforgettable movies and books, and even pay homage to certain songs, Latin phrases, such as “Memento mori,” are also seen as timeless pieces that do more than meets the eye.

The term “Memento mori” has ties with death, but it isn’t really as dark or as frightening as it seems. In fact, as more people are growing fond of tattoos, Memento mori tattoos are definitely reaching their period of never-ending success, and doing so in majestic fashion.

To learn all about what it signifies, and the lessons one can learn from it, be sure to stay until the end of this write-up dedicated to Memento mori tattoos. You may also stick around if you’d like to see some of the best designs under its belt for inspiration.

Memento Mori Tattoo Meaning And Its Symbolism: A Warning Or Words Of Wisdom?

@cochran000

Memento mori is the Latin term for “remember you must die.” Although the phrase has existed for more than a couple of centuries, the meaning it carries wasn’t talked about until recent times, which explains why the tattoo took quite some time to rise to prominence.

Although users find the term intimidating and scary, and often perceive the term as a warning, Memento mori is a phrase most should remember to embrace life instead of entering a downward spiral.

Apart from garnering a huge following in the spiritual world, Memento mori tattoos are also quite popular in the fashion scene, Move on to the following segment to learn about its beginning and its current position in pop culture.

The Multiple Faces of Memento Mori Tattoos

The meaning of Memento mori remains unchanged. However, in this dynamic world, a Memento Mori tattoo can be used to convey a series of different messages, mainly due to how compatible its energy is.

In the past, Memento mori tattoos were seen on soldiers, warriors, as well as free-thinkers. Warriors and soldiers would use them to fuel their motivation and come out victorious, while free-thinkers typically chased happiness with the silhouettes of this tattoo.

The meaning remains the same in this day and age, but is more versatile and multipurpose than it’s ever been. In addition to being a must-have for free-thinkers trying to get by in life, Memento Mori tattoos are also known for soothing symptoms of depression, and multiple other mental disorders. For its visuals, it is also an eye candy for minimalists.

The Influence Of Memento Mori Tattoos On Pop Culture

@tigrotattooink

Memento Mori tattoos initially rose to stardom due to the prominence of their metaphorical value. And although the versatility of its symbolism will forever remain a key selling point, the amount of influence it has on pop culture definitely does help the tattoo with expanding its fanbase.

Memento Mori tattoos are quite popular among celebrities. While most of them are perceived as idols in the eyes of many, the lives of celebrities come with multiple obstacles. At times, making time for family can even be an impossible task to achieve.

Many A-list personalities believe that Memento Mori tattoos keep their mental health in check, and enable them to welcome fame with open arms instead of feeling overwhelmed. Stars such as Miley Cyrus are one of the more renowned influencers on the bandwagon of Memento Mori tattoos, followed by Adam Levine and Harry Styles.

Ideas Of Memento Mori Tattoos That Will Always Be Relevant

Now that you’re aware of how popular Memento Mori tattoos are as of 2024, and how moving their symbolism was during the early days, it’s finally time to check out the best candidates in terms of visuals.

From simple variants to elaborate designs, here are some of the best concepts of Memento Mori tattoos that you can directly replicate or take ideas from, especially before leaving for your appointment.

Minimalist Memento Mori Tattoo

@couragestudio_

The first favorite on this list is a minimalist Memento Mori tattoo, which is also the most common variant in this category. The tattoo involves a quote tattoo which is curated with a round liner needle, comprising thin borders and pen-like visuals.

In addition to being painless, the size of this tattoo is quite compact, making this Memento Mori tattoo flexible for any location. Additionally, if the visuals feel too plain for your eyes to fathom, add symbols that are directly related to the value of Memento Mori tattoos.

Memento Mori Icarus Tattoo

@the_tattooed_girl

@_athio

Memento Mori conveys a series of messages with its existence. It can be a warning to many, while being a means of expressing gratitude for the rest.

To make the most of life, having confidence and optimism is necessary. It is also great to have the drive and focus throughout life to make it memorable.

And although a Memento Mori tattoo can work as a great source of reminder, adding an Icarus tattoo to the mix, affiliated with hope, prosperity, and optimism, can add a whole new meaning to Memento Mori tattoos.

Memento Mori Above the Knee Tattoo

@tigerlilyink

A Memento Mori tattoo can be displayed in various ways, irrespective of your physical appearance or body type. But, if your main aim is to obtain something that is as delicate as the metaphor of the artwork, an above-the-knee tattoo should be sufficient.

An above-the-knee tattoo of the term “Memento Mori” can be a good idea for simple minds and straightforward beings. It offers a low-maintenance upkeep routine, but can be painful due to the sensitivity one’s knees have to needles.

Memento Mori Wrist Tattoo

@victor_gvaz

@markmeyertattooer

Wrist tattoos have been in the game for a long, long time for various reasons. One of the primary reasons behind its success is the dimensions it contains, which can cater to beginners. The artwork is always compact, making it a good option for those that seek privacy.

A Memento Mori wrist tattoo is either obtained as a quote tattoo, or an emblem tattoo. The variant with the emblem is more easy on the eyes, and takes up more space. The quote tattoo, on the other hand, is less hectic to create, offering a time-friendly procedure to enthusiasts.

Memento Mori Neck Tattoo

@alex_tattuador

@sketchraven

If you’re susceptible to pain, a Memento Mori neck tattoo can be the perfect match for your pain-resilient body. The illustration might look too loud, but can also be formed in a subtle manner with any of the existing shadowing techniques.

To block out the pain, taking medication such as painkillers is advised. If you’d like an alternative, you may also try using numbing cream 30 minutes before the session.

Memento Mori and Moth Tattoo

@leni_moonshine

Moth tattoos are perfect for paying homage to a loved one. But, when they’re meshed with Memento Mori tattoos, the impression of the artwork isn’t just more sentimental, but also more alluring on the outside.

A Memento Mori moth tattoo is a design that doesn’t shy away from the public eye. Therefore, be sure to place it in an area that is visible.

Memento Mori Skull Tattoo

@inkdbymaryann

@sakarisz

The graphic of a skull doesn’t carry much when the symbolism is thrown into the mix. When paired with a Memento Mori tattoo, however, the pair can look quite marvellous.

A Memento Mori skull tattoo was discovered centuries ago. The artwork of the skull brilliantly fills the emptiness of the area that is left behind by the Memento Mori tattoo, and even looks like a symbol that portrays the importance of life and death. Since the dimensions are quite manageable, placing it anywhere is quite applicable.

Memento Mori Angel Wing Tattoo

@a.s_tattoo_

Another way through which you can honor the passing of a loved one using Memento Mori tattoos is this entry, which features the appearance of angel wings, also known as Angel wing tattoos.

The artwork is slightly better on the outside in contrast to most of the options mentioned on this list, containing nothing but the quote and the wings. Since the dimensions are quite narrow, this tattoo can be placed anywhere and everywhere.

Memento Mori Throat Tattoo

@tattoobyjulie

The throat is one of the most exposed areas of the human body. For that reason alone, using it as a canvas for a Memento Mori tattoo can seem like a great notion to carry out.

The procedure of this variant is quite delicate, since the throat comprises tons of nerve endings. Be sure to clear your schedule, since the creation process might take a while.

Mac Miller Memento Mori Tattoo

@idle_hands_tattoo_parlour

Mac Miller was an American artist and musician who mostly made music regarding life, sharing words of wisdom in each track. Although the Pittsburgh-born native was mainly known for being a wordsmith, he was also known for encouraging his fanbase of valuing people and feelings more than materials.

He was also known for raising awareness for the term “Memento mori,” which makes this Mac Miller Memento mori tattoo unforgettable.

Memento Mori Sun and Moon Tattoo

@luki_tat

The symbolism that the moon conveys as opposed to that of the sun can is eerily different. However, despite being polar opposites, they can easily join forces to make a Memento Mori tattoo look more meaningful.

The dimensions of this tattoo vary, which means that it can be displayed anywhere. However, if you don’t want the tattoo to look too overwhelming, consider using a simple graphic with no colour.

Memento Mori Skeleton Tattoo

@morkoink

@timcochranart

The structure of a skeleton can also come in handy if you’re thinking of getting a Memento Mori tattoo. In addition to having remarkable components in its structure, a skeleton tattoo can pass as an extended form of a skull tattoo.

When placed next to a skeleton tattoo, a Memento Mori tattoo looks more intriguing. The symbol of the skeleton can be a great way to make the final illustration less basic, and a good element to add if you’re seeking a black-and-grey tattoo.

Memento Mori Hand Tattoo

@sz.kitti.tattoo

The surface of the hand can be a controversial area to use for a tattoo. However, due to how exposure level of the body part, a Memento Mori hand tattoo is quite popular among free-thinkers.

As long as the symbols are relevant, anything can be added to a Memento Mori hand tattoo. Don’t go overboard, though, as the area contains tons of nerve endings that are sensitive to the contact of needles.

Memento Mori Tarot Card Tattoo

@ghbastos_ink

@theartofabai

Tarot card tattoos share a weird bond with Memento Mori tattoos. Although they mainly possess the ability to determine one’s future by analyzing their past and present, the connection that they share with life aligns perfectly with the purpose of a Memento Mori tattoo.

This tattoo is typically illustrated using symbols and figures alongside the quote, but you may also keep it subtle by adding emblems only.

Memento Mori Chest Tattoo

@allvesink

You can also convert a Memento Mori tattoo into a chest tattoo, especially if you take the assistance of your creativity. To make the artwork enriched with sentimental value, consider your current scenario, and form a piece using bits and pieces of your own life.

A good part about this variant is its pain levels, which are quite moderate. However, the tattoo might require regular touch-ups to stay sound.

Memento Mori Fine Line Tattoo

@mellows_ink

Keeping it light is absolutely possible with a Memento mori tattoo. All you have to do is settle for a stencil tattoo, which will then be converted into a fine-line Memento mori tattoo.

The placement of this tattoo is open to interpretation. Therefore, for best results, side with an area that amps up your physical appearance. To make the fine-line tattoo a bit better than the rest, ask your tattoo artist to use vibrant colors like red, blue, or purple.

Memento Mori Hip Tattoo

@leejohn.ink

Hip tattoos are quite painful, but they can be a great notion to go through if you’re obtaining a Memento Mori tattoo, associated with pain. While painful, hip tattoos are quite delicate, making them a great area for those seeking an appealing design. While the impression gets better when the size is compact, the pain subsides if you use some numbing cream.

Memento Mori Butterfly Tattoo

@artero_tattoo

Butterfly tattoos represent growth, development and rejuvenation, three stages that every living being goes through in life. This is also the reason that butterfly tattoos pair so well with Memento Mori tattoos, which brings a Memento Mori butterfly tattoo into existence.

The design of this tattoo typically comprises the symbol of the butterfly on top and contains the quote at the bottom, but that trait is open to interpretation.

Memento Mori Naked Women Tattoo

@_harrymckenzie

Doodling can be a great way to hide the intensity of Memento Mori tattoos, which is often seen with fear. You may add components that are lighthearted to change the narrative of the tattoo, irrespective of how large or small they are in terms of size.

However, if you’d like to grab the attention of many with your Memento Mori tattoo, try placing it alongside the artwork of a naked woman.

Memento Mori Forearm Tattoo

@koloti_tattoodd

A Memento Mori tattoo should never be displayed with fear. And if you do agree with that narrative, consider placing it as a forearm tattoo.

A Memento Mori forearm tattoo can be created in various ways, containing basic as well as vibrant qualities. Tattooing around the forearm should also be enjoyable, as the layers of skin that make up the forearm are quite durable. You can also make adjustments to the size of the artwork and align it with your preferences, as the illustration can fit anywhere.

Memento Mori Sparta Tattoo

@jorge valdes

Since going to war was the only option during the Middle ages, most soldiers were required to have the mind of a warrior.

Although most soldiers were self-driven, those that struggled to find a purpose either got a warrior tattoo or a Memento mori Sparta tattoo, both of which were known for being quite motivational.

Memento Mori Sternum Tattoo

@samscotttattoo

Memento Mori tattoos cater to everyone, regardless of gender. However, if you’re seeking a variant with feminine-like qualities, a Memento Mori sternum tattoo can be a great option for you to look into.

The visuals of this tattoo are quite minimal and can even be easy for tattoo artists to replicate. The procedure, on the other hand, can be painful due to the sensitivity of the area.

Memento Mori Patchwork Tattoo

@mehmet.ink

A Memento Mori tattoo might look too complex when placed into a sleeve tattoo, as the letters can easily be outplayed by any visually-oriented piece.

However, if you’d like your Memento Mori tattoo to have a series of emblems, consider looking into this patchwork tattoo, which shows just how compatible this tattoo can end up being.

Memento Mori Yin Yang Tattoo

@dardash_tattoo

Yin-yang tattoos represent two sides of life, comprising both positive and negative aspects. Although the symbol of a Yin-Yang tattoo can ride alone, a component it fits like a glove with is a Memento Mori tattoo.

The tattoo can be formed in various ways, both creative and basic, to meet the requirements of the wearer. While it can also be positioned anywhere as well, the best area for the artwork is the forearm.

Memento Mori Thigh Tattoo

@myco.tattoos

To convert a basic Memento Mori tattoo into a presentable and memorable design, you may want to increase the dimensions a little.

Additionally, if you want a wide canvas that involves zero to minimum pain, use the size and resilient nature of one of your thighs for the best results.

Memento Mori Under Boob Tattoo

@ozlemariar.ink

A variant that reeks of feminine energy on this list is the Memento Mori underboob tattoo. This is also great for those that are seeking compact designs, as the area provided by an underboob is quite narrow, although lengthy. The tattoo looks quite attractive, which is another crucial factor that makes this option so desirable. However, since the area is quite sensitive, be sure to place your trust in a professional tattoo artist.

Memento Mori Geometric Tattoo

@ave_lights

Using angles and shapes to form your tattoo can help you with rising above the rest, especially if you’re hoping to obtain a Memento Mori tattoo. In the tattoo world, however, it is known as the Memento Mori geometric tattoo.

The tattoo is quite easy to incorporate, as the needle used is a round liner. The artwork looks best when placed around the forearm, but can also make a great chest piece.

Memento Mori Pokemon Tattoo

@nakayoshi_tattoo

If letters seem too plain for your taste, try exploring your creative mind a little more than you usually do. Additionally, if all else fails, take notes from, or directly mimic the components involved in this entry, comprising a Memento Mori Pokemon tattoo. The letters are formed in the same way as Poke Balls, giving the artwork more shapes and borders to work with.

Memento Mori Cross Tattoo

@clas_sic_tattoo

Memento Mori tattoos often claim that tomorrow is never promised, and encourage the wearers to live their lives to the fullest while they can. And while many people perceive that as a sign of being more adventurous, many fall back on religion to cherish their faith one day at a time. The perfect variant for the latter is a Memento Mori cross tattoo, which has the right intention and visuals.

Memento Mori Tattoo on Bicep

@taykokotattoos

Due to the layers of fat, the bicep area can be an ideal location for showcasing a Memento Mori tattoo. The procedure is quite lenient in terms of pain, and the area is also pretty convenient for enthusiasts who believe in gatekeeping the exposure of this tattoo. The dimensions might change, however, especially if the wearer gains or loses weight.

Memento Mori Traditional Tattoo

@renataromero_ink

Since most Memento Mori tattoos are in black and white, draping the design with colors can be a good way to make the tattoo a little more vibrant and engaging. The colour scheme is quite subjective, so be sure to add hues that pair well with your personality or the scenario you’re in.

Memento Mori Ocean Wave Tattoo

@minto.tattoo

Memento Mori tattoos serve as a reminder of how life too comes with an end, while ocean wave tattoos encourage one to wing it until things work out. This, while odd, could definitely be the crucial reason why Memento Mori tattoos and ocean wave tattoos get along so well.

The visuals are quite sublime on this one, comprising block letters that surround an ocean wave. The size runs quite small, but can be orchestrated differently to meet your requirements.

Memento Mori Sword Tattoo

@firestarterink

Sword tattoos are usually associated with protection and are often malleable with a series of tattoos. One of the designs it pairs well with is the Memento Mori tattoo, where both components feed off one another.

The sword is usually placed down the middle of the quote, which is effective in filling out open spaces.

Memento Mori Grim Reaper Tattoo

@stephwoolery

If you’d like your tattoo to constantly remind you of how short life is, try obtaining a Memento Mori Grim Reaper tattoo, which gravitates more towards the inevitability of death.

In contrast to the rest of the options, the design of this tattoo runs quite large. Placing the ink around the chest can be a great idea, but you may also place it on the forearm for more visibility.

Memento Mori Snake Tattoo

@panrose_tattoo

Snake tattoos look quite intimidating, and will always grab the attention of anyone who stumbles upon one. However, from a metaphoric standpoint, snake tattoos are quite helpful, being associated with power, strength, and healing; three elements that can effectively enhance the final outlook of a Memento Mori tattoo.

The tattoo is quite easy to create, comprising soft aesthetics. It’s also quite flexible, making it the perfect asset for any location.

Memento Mori Dragonfly Tattoo

@lazy_wild_colours

Dragonfly tattoos are often associated with adaptability, and transformation, and can be enhanced with vibrant shades of colour from the outside.

However, when a Memento mori dragonfly tattoo comes into existence, it mostly drops hints on the importance of overcoming adversity in life to make the little things as well as the important ones worthwhile.

Memento Mori Anatomical Heart Tattoo

@triz_tattoo_

While death is inevitable, another feeling that one will always cross paths with is the feeling of love, which can be incorporated into a Memento Mori tattoo with an anatomical heart tattoo.

Anatomical hearts represent the emotions we feel throughout life, even those that may not always feel positive to endure. However, when incorporated into a Memento Mori tattoo, the silhouettes of the heart seem like a great place for the quote to stand.

Memento Mori Hat Tattoo

@horn_mma

Since the phrase is Latin at the end of the day, pairing a Memento Mori tattoo with a hat tattoo, or a sombrero tattoo, could be a good way of reprising the heritage of the artwork, and obtaining an aesthetically pleasing design.

The tattoo typically comprises two symbols alongside the quote itself, containing a rich ink of jet black for maximum appeal.

Memento Mori Infinity Tattoo

@angelltattoos

Flower tattoos represent life in the tattoo world. Although that aspect can be showcased in various ways, using a memento mori infinity tattoo can be an ideal way of expressing the importance of life and death.

The visuals are typically quite minimalistic, which can be a safe bet to make if you’re a beginner.

Memento Mori Elbow Tattoo

@itwaswitchestattoo

While its popularity has yet to rise to prominence, one can also place their Memento Mori tattoo on the surface of their elbow.

The tattoo can be as simple as a quote tattoo, but it can also have emblems related to death to make the visuals more powerful.

Wearing this tattoo should be a no-no for those with sensitive skin, as an elbow tattoo is typically quite painful.

Memento Mori Tattoos: An Authentic Preview

Unlike most tattoos, Memento Mori tattoos come with loads of options. And although it mainly revolves around the phrase, things could still go wrong if proper measures aren’t taken. Worry not, however, as the video mentioned below will enable you to carry out the right steps without any repercussions!

Frequently Asked Questions

With the help of the formerly-provided video, we hope you’re able to learn just how wonderful a Memento Mori tattoo will look if the creation process pans out properly, and how polished the results are when you place your trust in the hands of a professional.

However, if you have more queries or feelings or doubt, consider skimming through the following questionnaire.

Q: What is the best placement area for Memento Mori tattoos?

A: The best area for placing a Memento Mori tattoo is quite subjective, as it should always align with each enthusiast’s interests. If we were to pick one spot, however, we will definitely side with the resilient and hefty structure of the forearm.

Q: How compatible is a Memento Mori tattoo?

A: Memento Mori tattoos are some of the most compatible tattoos available on the market right now. Their symbolism allows them to pair with components that gravitate towards love, hate, fear, independence, and obviously, death.

Final Verdict

If you feel as if you’ve hit a plateau or lack purpose in life, a Memento Mori tattoo can surely come to your rescue. The Latin term expresses how life too comes with a deadline, and advises everyone to live each day as if it’s their last. Additionally, if you use your creativity enough, the value of your Memento Mori tattoo can stay relevant until eternity.

The stencil of a Memento Mori is quite simple, comprising a compilation of one quote on most occasions. However, if you’d like to convey one particular message using your Memento tattoo, or even want to enhance the tattoo with metaphoric value, adding components that are directly related to your experiences can do the trick.

Memento Mori isn’t just about the inevitability of death, but also reflects on the importance of being grateful while you still can. Life does seem limitless and empowering sometimes, but acknowledging how tomorrow is never promised can be a good thing to keep in mind, as it will allow one to live life to the fullest.

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