Laugh up one's sleeve definitions
| Word backwards | hgual pu s'eno eveels |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The part of speech of the phrase "laugh up one's sleeve" is a verb phrase. |
| Syllabic division | laugh up one's sleeve Syllable separation: laugh / up / one's / sleeve |
| Plural | The plural of the phrase "laugh up one's sleeve" would be "laughs up one's sleeves." |
| Total letters | 17 |
| Vogais (4) | a,u,o,e |
| Consonants (7) | l,g,h,p,n,s,v |
Laughing up one's sleeve is an idiom that means to express amusement or satisfaction in a way that is not openly displayed. It often implies a sense of secret amusement or satisfaction at the expense of others.
This expression originates from the literal act of hiding one's laughter by raising a sleeve to cover the lower part of the face. It suggests a subtle form of mocking or smugness that is not meant to be openly acknowledged.
Origins and Meaning
The phrase "laugh up one's sleeve" dates back to the 19th century and is believed to have originated in England. The image of someone hiding their laughter behind their sleeve conveys a sense of concealed amusement or satisfaction.
Common Usage
This idiom is often used to describe situations where someone takes pleasure in someone else's misfortune or mistakes without openly showing it. It can also be used to describe situations where someone secretly delights in their own cleverness or success.
Impact of Body Language
Laughing up one's sleeve is not just about the act of laughing itself but also about the body language that accompanies it. It conveys a sense of hidden amusement or satisfaction that is revealed through subtle gestures or expressions.
In conclusion, the phrase "laugh up one's sleeve" captures the essence of hidden amusement or satisfaction that is not openly displayed. It adds a layer of complexity to our understanding of human emotions and interactions, highlighting the sometimes subtle and nuanced ways in which we express ourselves.
Laugh up one's sleeve Examples
- She couldn't help but laugh up her sleeve when she saw her coworker trip over his own feet.
- He would always laugh up his sleeve whenever his brother got scolded by their parents.
- Despite trying to maintain a serious demeanor, the judge couldn't help but laugh up his sleeve at the defendant's ridiculous excuse.
- The teacher had to suppress the urge to laugh up her sleeve when a student mispronounced a simple word during a presentation.
- Even though she was angry, Jenny couldn't help but laugh up her sleeve at her cat's silly antics.
- The comedian knew he had succeeded in his performance when he heard the audience start to laugh up their sleeves.
- As much as he tried to hide it, John could always tell when his friends were laughing up their sleeves at his clumsy attempts.
- The siblings shared a secret glance, both trying to hide the fact that they were laughing up their sleeves at their parents' outdated dance moves.
- Whenever someone made a corny joke, Sarah would discreetly laugh up her sleeve to avoid hurting their feelings.
- The detective carefully observed the suspect, noticing how he would often laugh up his sleeve at inappropriate moments.