fig leaf
Americannoun
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the leaf of a fig tree.
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a representation of a fig leaf, used as an ornament in architecture, as a cover for the genitalia on a statue or in a painting, etc.
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something intended to conceal what may be considered indecorous or indecent.
to approach the facts of life with the fig leaves of roundabout expressions.
noun
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a leaf from a fig tree
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a representation of a leaf, usually a vine leaf rather than an actual fig leaf, used in painting or sculpture to cover the genitals of nude figures
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a device intended to conceal something regarded as shameful or indecent
Etymology
Origin of fig leaf
First recorded in 1525–35
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“This is just a fig leaf to deflect from criticism,” Ocasio-Cortez posted on X External link in response to Kalshi’s new measures.
From Barron's ● Mar. 25, 2026
Magda, the manager, helps me with a goat cheese, Mothais sur Feuille, wrapped in a fig leaf.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 10, 2025
It’s a fig leaf so thin the merest whisper of a breeze wafts it away.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 11, 2024
“Not even a fig leaf of a respectable response,” Eisinger said.
From Seattle Times ● Oct. 8, 2023
The black box: a fig leaf in reverse, concealing identity while leaving shame exposed.
From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
