What does 'tattoo' refer to in the context of the Navy?

In the context of the Navy, 'tattoo' refers to a signal that indicates five minutes before the evening taps, which is the time when lights are turned out and silence is to be observed. This term has historical roots and has been a part of military tradition for a long time, serving as a reminder for personnel to wrap up their daily activities and prepare for the end of the day. The concept behind tattoo is to ensure that service members are aware it is time to settle down, and it contributes to maintaining order and discipline during the evening hours.

The function of tattoo as a signal aligns closely with military routines and practices, highlighting its significance in establishing a structured environment within the service.