40 Small Anchor Tattoo Designs For Men – [2022 Inspiration Guide]

Anchors are not just tattoo ideas for the nautically inclined anymore, though many still honor their second home at sea by using the symbol.

For those who move over land the anchor has come to represent a still point in a tumultuous world; it is the mark of one rooted to terra firma, no matter how many fathoms deep they plunge.

The following collection features 40 of the best anchor tattoo designs and are certain to give you inspiration in the hunt for a new tattoo idea.

1. Small Anchor Tattoos for the Ankle and Foot

2. American Traditional Anchor Tattoos

3. Innovative Black and Gray Small Anchor Tattoo Art

4. Small Anchor Tattoos for the Chest and Side

5. Linework Small Anchor Tattoos

6. Traditional Black and Gray Small Anchor Tattoo Ideas

7. Tiny Anchor Tattoo Designs

Small Anchor Tattoo FAQs

What do small anchor tattoos symbolize?

According to Aitken Smith’s Tattoo Dictionary “the most obvious use of an anchor tattoo is by navy sailors and members of the merchant marine as symbols of their profession.”

The anchor was one of the earliest adopted modern tattoo designs, hence it’s popularity as an American Traditional motif, where aside from the ocean it can symbolize strength and being grounded.

What do anchor tattoos mean spiritually?

In religious tattoo the anchor is often tied to being strong in your faith.

The anchored figured in early Christian spirituality, with many tombs in Roman catacombs adorned with the symbol.

The anchor would also go on to represent St. Clement, who was martyred by being bound to an anchor and thrown into the sea.