in-joke

[ in-johk ]

noun

1. a joke that can be understood or appreciated only by the members of a limited group of people.

Word History and Origins

Origin of in-joke¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

It is full of in-jokes of the era, but with sly and not-so-sly gusto along with a gifted cast, Shaw turned this into riotous supper-club opera.

From Los Angeles Times

Throughout our interviews they have in-jokes and gently make fun of each other, which Connor says helps with the more difficult days on set.

From BBC

It's an odd thing to say publicly, but it makes a bit more sense if it's an in-joke winking at a man who hates MLK.

From Salon

So, is anyone actually trying to be demure, or is this just a massive in-joke that's been blown out of proportion?

From BBC

As with much of Bryan's work, in-jokes and references to art and comics burst out of almost every panel, while it's aesthetic is turbo-charged Victorian.

From BBC