Don't worry about us laughing, it's just a private joke from our trip last summer.
Used to quickly reassure an outsider who feels left out, explaining that the humor comes from a specific past memory.
Noun phrase: private joke
Vibe: Behavior and social impression
A joke that is only understood or found funny by a specific small group of people who share a past experience.
Sorry for bursting out laughing, it's a private joke between Sarah and me.
You picture two friends making eye contact across a crowded dinner table and immediately cracking up, while everyone else looks around in total confusion.
Real-life examples
They have so many private jokes that hanging out with them can feel a bit lonely.
Highlights how exclusive shared humor can make new people feel disconnected in a group setting.
Synonyms
Contrast & nuance
'Inside joke' is the most common, everyday American term for this concept. 'Private joke' means the exact same thing, but slightly emphasizes the personal boundary or private nature of the shared memory.