Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

laugh-up-ones-sleeve

idiom

/læf ʌp wʌnz sliːv/

Definition

To deride or mock someone in a quiet and subtle manner, often in a way that avoids direct confrontation or open laughter.

Examples

She couldn’t help but laugh-up-her-sleeve when her coworker tripped over his own shoelaces during the presentation.
He was amused, laughing-up-his-sleeve at the silly mistakes made by the competitors.

Meaning

This phrase refers to the act of keeping one’s amusement or scorn hidden while still finding humor in a situation or person, typically indicating a playful but somewhat sneaky attitude.