Tattoo Ideas: Geeks (Video Games, Math, DNA)

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines geek as: "an enthusiast or expert especially in a technological field or activity". Wikipedia, on the other hand, offers a slew of definitions, particularly focusing on the difference between the words geek and nerd (a nerd is someone who is unusually intelligent, whereas a geek has an eccentric interest towards a certain topic.) Typically, geeks are people of any gender who are interested in technology, particularly computers and gaming. They care little for social status, material wealth or financial gain, choosing to focus instead on the pursuit of subjects they find fascinating. Another beloved subject among geeks is math. Infinity, pi, points of latitude and longitude, even geometric shapes and calculus are all concepts that garner great interest. Geeks are some of the only people in the world who can apply the ideas learned in math class to real life situations. Geeks come in all shapes and sizes and are interested in a variety of topics including science fiction, engineering, history, drama, literature, movies, Japanese animation and manga, biology, physics, chemistry and more.

Perhaps the idea of a tattooed geek sounds like an oxymoron, but there is a whole gallery on BMEzine devoted to geek tattoos and the geeks who have them. Self-identified geeks define themselves as "one who is primarily motivated by passion." According to Wikipedia.com, "Geeks do not see the typical ‘geeky' interests as interesting, but as objects of passionate devotion." If this is true, then it makes sense that even geeks would want to modify their bodies by tattooing their beliefs and ideals on their skin. Biceps are adorned with DNA helixes, molecular structures representing caffeine atoms and lines of binary code. Video game characters like Mario, Sonic the Hedgehog, Zelda and Pacman make frequent appearances, along with computer keys and the directional pads on video game controllers.

Scroll down to see the photo galleries showcasing some of the best geek tattoos on the web. Images courtesy of BMEzine.