the.com/chuckling
Laughter that decided the full performance wasn't worth the calories.
means Laughing quietly and privately, usually a soft low sound made mostly to yourself.
from From the 1500s verb chuck, to make a clucking, contented noise like a hen — laughter at a simmer rather than a boil.
Throat soundMade low in the throat, not the belly.
Mouth often shutClassic chuckles barely part the lips.
Smug cousinOften signals private amusement others miss.