Main Entry:

¹tat·too

Pronunciation:

\ta-ˈtü\

Function:

noun

Inflected Form(s):

plural tattoos

Etymology:

alteration of earlier taptoo, from Dutch taptoe, from the phrase tap toe! taps shut!

Date:

circa 1627

1: a rapid rhythmic rapping2 a: a call sounded shortly before taps as notice to go to quarters b: outdoor military exercise given by troops as evening entertainment