fig leaf
noun
the leaf of a fig tree.
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.
something intended to conceal what may be considered indecorous or indecent: to approach the facts of life with the fig leaves of roundabout expressions.
Origin of fig leaf
First recorded in 1525–35
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Related Words for fig leaf
visor, veil, cloak, camouflage, alibi, ploy, ruse, excuse, guise, pretense, lid, canvas, sheet, mask, screen, cap, envelope, roof, jacket, frontExamples from the Web for fig leaf
Historical Examples of fig leaf
A woman, with only a fig-leaf for dress, has a double tail instead of legs.
The Cathedral BuildersLeader Scott
It was also in the Spring that Eve wearied of her fig-leaf toque.
The Foolish AlmanakAnonymous
Yes, let her bring him to us at once, like a savage, without any fig-leaf.
The Bashful Lover (Novels of Paul de Kock Volume XIX)Charles Paul de Kock
That falsehood has not even a fig-leaf to cover its absurdity.
The Works of Robert G. Ingersoll, Vol. 10 (of 12)Robert G. Ingersoll
And so for a while she made pride serve as fig-leaf to her nakedness.
The Pace That KillsEdgar Saltus
fig leaf
noun
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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