Laugh in your sleeve Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To secretly find something funny, especially at someone else's expense, while hiding your amusement from others.
Usage & Nuances
Semi-formal/neutral; slightly old-fashioned but still understood. Implies hidden amusement or mocking without showing it. Often used when someone is ridiculing another silently. Similar to 'laugh up your sleeve', but do not confuse with 'laugh out loud'.
Example Sentences
Sometimes, people laugh in their sleeve when someone makes a mistake.
basic
He didn't show it, but he was laughing in his sleeve at her idea.
basic
When the teacher slipped, the students laughed in their sleeve so she wouldn't notice.
basic
You could see John laughing in his sleeve during the awkward meeting.
natural
While everyone praised the boss, Maria was laughing in her sleeve at his terrible joke.
natural
He always tries to be nice, but sometimes you just know he's laughing in his sleeve.
natural