23 One-Word Tattoos That Prove the Power of Simplicity
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If you've been considering getting a one-word tattoo, you might be wondering where to start. Should you get something short and sweet or go for a smaller part of an entire quote? Not only that, but even once you've decided on your one-word tattoos, you'll need to figure out what style to get it in. Will you go with a traditional-style script or opt for a fine-line design? Once you've made up your mind on all of that, you'll need to think about placement. Will it fit perfectly on your finger or would a bicep be the best spot?
Regardless of all the questions that come with one-word tattoos, they're seriously one of the most versatile pieces that you can have etched onto your body. Yes, all designs are beautiful, whether they're intricate, basic, large, or tiny in size, but looking at how other people scale their tattoos, whether they be massive, realistic pieces or small, fine-line designs, can help you to decide on how you want to curate your own one-word tattoo to your specific tastes and you can morph your tattoo into almost any design you want.
Tattoos with just a single word can truly stand out, so if you're looking to get inked, let these ideas inspire you to wear your heart on your sleeve (or your ankle, back, wrist, what have you). These small words are reminders of the great things you can accomplish, no matter what may come your way.
Keep reading to see the prettiest word-tattoo ideas (many in different fonts and styles), and let your new ink be a fresh reminder of just how powerful words can be.
"Romantica" One-Word Tattoo
The forearm is the perfect place for a one-word tattoo. Opt for a word that can maybe invite some conversation behind what it means like the one seen here.
"Angel" One-Word Tattoo
Looking to emulate your favorite celebrity? Get an angel one-word tattoo and you'll join the ranks of people like Dua Lipa.
"Simplify" One-Word Tattoo
To keep your one-word tattoo simple, getting the word "simplify" written in a crisp font is a great tattoo idea.
Gemini One-Word Tattoo
Have your new tattoo be a nod to your zodiac sign for a personal touch. To make it even more personalized, add elements associated with your sign around it.
"Art" One-Word Tattoo
Art can mean anything you want it to. Pair your one-word tattoo with a fun piercing, as seen here, for your own piece of art to tell the world about.
"Grounded" One-Word Foot Tattoo
Love a good pun? The foot is a fitting place to get a "grounded" one-word tattoo.
"Faith" One-Word Tattoo
Strong observer of your faith? Let this word tattoo acts as a reminder of what's important to you.
"Amor" One-Word Tattoo
There's something so romantic about the word "Amor." It makes for a beautiful one-word tattoo on somewhere slightly unusual like the hand.
"Fools" One-Word Tattoo
For a funny take on the one-word tattoo trend, try something cheeky like "fools."
"Chaos" One-Word Tattoo
This one word tattoo reads "chaos" but the "A" letter is upside down, adding to the chaotic nature of the design.
"Beauty" One-Word Tattoo
The side of the neck is the perfect place for a sensual one-word tattoo.
"Now" One-Word Tattoo
If you want to remind yourself to live life to the fullest, a one-word tattoo design that simply reads "now" is a short but sweet idea.
"Lady" One-Word Tattoo
Want to pay homage to your favorite movies? This "lady" one-word tattoo is written in a super-delicate font and is the perfect way to honor the character from "Lady and the Tramp."
"Create" One-Word Tattoos
If you're an artist who often works with their hands, "create" is a great one-word tattoo idea.
"Continue" One-Word Tattoo
Word tattoos also make for great matching friendship designs. Look at this matching "continue" design.
"Muse" One-Word Tattoo
This "muse" word tattoo is elusive and sexy. Coupled with the fun location? Expect some eyes on you with this one.
"Love" One-Word Tattoo
Add some personality to your word tattoo by incorporating another design element. This one features a cross and was done in red.
"Wild" One-Word Tattoo
This one-word tattoo reads "wild" and is placed on the hip. It's perfect if you prefer a piece that's a bit easier to hide.
"Patience" One-Word Tattoo
Above the knee is often forgotten territory when it comes to tattoo placement, but it fits this "patience" design well.
Tiny "Love" One-Word Tattoo
The back of the shoulder is a great place to put a small word tattoo. This one that says "love" feels particularly romantic.
"Family" One-Word Tattoo
Want to honor your loved ones? Give your family a shout-out with your word tattoo design by opting for a simple "family."
"Soul" Small One-Word Tattoo
This rib tattoo reads "soul" done in a beautiful fine-line font. This placement feels super chic yet mysterious — perfect to show off on a date night.
"Gratitude" One-Word Tattoo
This fine-line tattoo is a great reminder to always have gratitude.
Additional reporting by Renee Rodriguez and Ariel Baker.
Ariel Baker is the associate editor for PS Beauty. Her areas of expertise include celebrity news, beauty trends, and product reviews. She has additional bylines with Essence and Forbes Vetted.
Renee Roriguez is the associate editor for PS Beauty. Her areas of expertise include celebrity news, beauty trends, and product reviews. She has additional bylines with Essence and Forbes Vetted.
Macy Cate Williams is a former content director of commerce at PS. She literally shops for a living! Based in the Bay Area, Macy finds the best fashion, beauty, fitness, and home products that readers should know about.