This is likely a joking reference to the original Cecil, a hand puppet whose tail was likewise hidden (because it didn't exist).

"That was just a joking reference to an old remedy for insomnia."

Mr. Khair Allah made a joking reference to recent events.

He did not help himself when, two years ago, he used a racial epithet in making a joking reference to Africans.

Some reviewers noted the joking reference to "Culture" in this.

Mr. King denies that, despite his joking reference to himself as Oliver North.

There were a few joking references to Jerome's weight and his affection for cigars.

I take that as a joking reference to the discussion.

In a joking reference to Italy's sports newspapers, he said, "Tomorrow, I hope there's a little picture."

However, he did make a joking reference to this incident during his visit to Canada in 2004.