two-percenter

English

Etymology

two percent +‎ -er

Noun

two-percenter (plural two-percenters)

1. A joke or reference that is so obscure that only a small minority of the audience will recognize and understand it.
2. Alternative form of two percenter
   • 2010, G. Mitchell Reyes, Public Memory, Race, and Ethnicity, page 131:

     If someone does not know the traditions, that person is asked "Are you a two-percenter?" By categorizing them as outcasts, mainstream Aggies overtly pressure two-percenters to correct the error of their ways and be reintegrated into the culture.

Related terms

• one-percenter

References

• Espenson, Jane. Jane in Progress. "Surgical Strikes". March 12, 2006. "A two-percenter, as I'm sure you've figured out, is a joke that the writers estimate will be understood and enjoyed by two percent of the audience. Sometimes the number cited varies, but the idea is the same, it means you're dealing with a fairly obscure reference."
• The Other Network Writers' Room Glossary of Terms. "TWO-PERCENTER - An erudite joke that only 2% of the audience will get."
• Audio commentary for "Mr. Hankey's Christmas Classics". In: Trey Parker, Matt Stone (2003). South Park – The Complete Third Season (DVD). Paramount Home Entertainment. "MATT STONE: In comedy it's called a 'two-percenter'. Two percent of the people get it."