The word "angel" comes from Greek word "angelos" which means "messenger", referring to a messenger of God. Angels are important supernatural beings found in many religions including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Zoroastrianism. Angels are thought to have set duties, with no free will or choice. For this reason, human beings are considered to be superior beings since humans have the ability to "be righteous" out of our own free will, rather than simply being "programmed" to be so.
Due to their connection to God, Angel Tattoo Designs commonly represent protection and guardianship. Another associated meaning is the everlasting struggle between good and evil (angel vs. archangel), which could represent ones outlook on his or her own life. Angels also have the ability to connect the spiritual and material world, and so these tattoos could symbolize connecting oneself with the spiritual world. Another common meaning underlying an angel design is remembrance of a lost loved one.
Popular designs include those of elegant winged creatures, flying or sitting on a cloud. Some designs may be soothing and calming in which the angel is seen holding a harp or trumpet, where as other designs may be more vulgar depicting angels holding a sword or dagger (Archangels). The best thing about angel tattoo designs is their versatility and the ability to implement them in a setting which best depicts what it is you want to say.