Centipedes have a long and complex history with humans. They are often associated with pestilence, death, and decay. Their appearance in mythology and folklore is usually indicative of bad news or coming misfortune.
Centipedes are not insects. They are, in fact, arthropods with long bodies and many legs. Because of this, they have a somewhat unique symbolism compared to other bugs or insects that you might want to include in your tattoo design. The centipede’s appearance is usually seen as foreboding or ominous. It’s not hard to see why.

Most species of centipede have poison glands, so they can be very dangerous to humans. When a person is envenomated by a centipede, it can cause itching and swelling similar to an allergic reaction. However, the venom may include powerful neurotoxins that could kill small animals.
Despite this negative reputation, centipedes also have a number of positive associations. They are seen as symbols of transformation, change, and new beginnings. They can also represent strength, speed, and agility.
So what does all of this mean for centipede tattoos?
Well, like most things, it depends on your own personal interpretation. But generally speaking, centipede tattoos can symbolize new beginnings, change, strength, and agility. They can also be representative of coming misfortune, but this usually depends on the surrounding symbolism.
Many people get this tattoo because they are fascinated with the macabre. They see the centipede as a creature of death and decay, and they like the idea of incorporating that into their body art.
A centipede with a human head tattoo meaning

One particularly interesting centipede tattoo design is the one that features a human head. This design is often used as a symbol of rebirth. The idea being that death isn’t the end, but rather just another stage.
Centipede and skull tattoo meaning

Another popular variation is the centipede and skull tattoo. This design can be interpreted in a number of ways, but it usually symbolizes mortality. It can also represent the fear of death, or the inevitability of our own demise. It’s up to you whether or not that’s what you intend to express by getting this tattoo.
The positive and negative associations of centipedes are usually related to their association with bad omens and death. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t like them for other reasons . Enough with this, let’s take a look at some centipede tattoos!

