寿 (shòu) — Longevity

Meaning & Nuance

寿 (shòu) means “long life, longevity, and old age.” It is one of the great auspicious wishes in Chinese culture, central to birthday celebrations and symbols of a long, blessed life. As a tattoo it carries a wish for vitality and time. It is more specifically about lifespan than 康 (kāng, health); 寿 is the years themselves.

Pronunciation & Form

Pinyin: shòu — a fourth tone (falling), a downward drop. It is a rounded, warm syllable fitting a word of blessing.

Common Words & Phrases

Why Get 寿 as a Tattoo

寿 is a tattoo of blessing — chosen by people who want to mark survival, a milestone, or a wish for many years ahead. A single 寿 is an ancient auspicious symbol recognized across Chinese culture as purely positive, with no awkward double meanings. It is a meaningful alternative to Western “live, laugh, love” ink.

Tattoo Style & Placement

Best fits: traditional, calligraphic, or seal-script styles where its classic form shines. Placements: upper arm, shoulder, back, or forearm. The character has an ornate, celebratory feel, so a medium size lets its strokes breathe. Avoid pairing it with anything morbid — 寿 is a wish, not a memento mori.

Authenticity & Cultural Note

Always confirm the character with a native speaker or linguist before inking. 寿 is sometimes confused with 受 (shòu, to receive) or 瘦 (shòu, thin). A verified 寿 guarantees your tattoo reads as “longevity.” handmade.ink meanings are checked by native Chinese linguists so your ink says exactly what you intend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Characters