Explore the meaning, origins, and cultural significance of the phrase 'laugh up one’s sleeve.' Discover its historical context and contemporary relevance.
To “laugh up one’s sleeve” is to be secretly amused or to find humor in a situation while concealing one’s mirth from others. This phrase implies a sense of hidden amusement, often at the expense of others, without overtly displaying one’s feelings.
The idiom “laugh up one’s sleeve” originates from the early sixteenth century, with the earliest recorded usage found in John Heywood’s collection of proverbs in 1546. The expression is thought to derive from the practice of concealing laughter by hiding one’s face within the voluminous sleeves that were fashionable during that period. This imagery suggests an attempt to mask one’s amusement from others, thereby maintaining a facade of seriousness or decorum.
The phrase carries a connotation of subtlety and discretion, suggesting that the individual is privately entertained by a situation that may not be overtly humorous to others. It often implies a sense of superiority or knowingness, as the person “laughing up their sleeve” possesses insight or awareness that others lack. The idiom can be used in contexts ranging from lighthearted amusement to more cynical or sardonic interpretations.
In contemporary culture, “laugh up one’s sleeve” is utilized in literature, film, and everyday discourse to convey the notion of concealed amusement. It is often employed to describe characters or individuals who maintain an outward appearance of seriousness while internally finding humor in the situation. This phrase can be found in various literary works, reflecting its enduring presence in the English language.
In professional settings, “laugh up one’s sleeve” might be used to describe a situation where someone finds amusement in a competitor’s misstep. In social contexts, it could refer to a person who is entertained by a friend’s unwitting faux pas. In literary works, authors might use the phrase to depict a character’s inner thoughts and feelings, adding depth to their portrayal.
The phrase “laugh up one’s sleeve” remains relevant in modern discourse, particularly in contexts where subtlety and discretion are valued. Its evocative imagery and historical roots contribute to its enduring appeal. The idiom is likely to maintain its place in the English lexicon due to its versatility and rich connotations.
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“He that is giddy thinks the world turns round. If he be not fool, he laughs up his sleeve.” - William Shakespeare, The Taming of the Shrew
“The gods too are fond of a joke.” - Aristotle, Philosophical Fragments (Although not a direct use of the phrase, it captures the essence of hidden amusement.)