Definition
A humorous reference or joke understood only by a specific group of people who share common knowledge or experiences, often incomprehensible to outsiders. It strengthens social bonds within communities and peer groups.
Example Usage
When someone mentioned the pizza incident, the whole group burst out laughing—it was a total inside joke.
Origin
Common English phrase combining 'inside' (private, within a group) and 'joke' (something amusing).
Fun Fact
Inside jokes are a sign of group cohesion and are often the first thing that makes a newly formed group feel like they belong together.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “Inside Joke” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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