The majority of the 'tear tattoos' seen in popular culture
today, however, signify that the wearer has killed. The number
of tears usually represents the number of
killings, although that was not the original meaning of tear
tattoos.[1]
It is a tattoo that is almost always associated with prison
tattoos and membership in a gang. Tear tattoos, when given in
prison, are primarily to indicate that the bearer has
murdered someone, either in or out of jail.[1][2][3]
The tattoo can also be given to commemorate a loved one who died
while the wearer was incarcerated.[2]
Also a teardrop can be given for every five straight years of
hard time a person has done in prison.