fig leaf

American  

noun

1. the leaf of a fig tree.

2. 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.

3. something intended to conceal what may be considered indecorous or indecent.

   to approach the facts of life with the fig leaves of roundabout expressions.

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fig leaf British  

noun

1. a leaf from a fig tree

2. 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

3. a device intended to conceal something regarded as shameful or indecent

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Etymology

Origin of fig leaf

First recorded in 1525–35

Example Sentences

In a post on his social network X, Musk described the ruling as a terrible precedent and accused the judge of using the jury as a fig leaf.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026

“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

Druckman mentions some other wonderfully inventive flavors throughout the country, including matcha, maple, banana foster, fig leaf, egg tart and Thai iced tea.

From Salon • May 16, 2024

“These technologies — whether it is our pathway of direct air capture or other carbon removal technologies — should not be a fig leaf for additional fossil fuel expansion,” Aiyer said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2024

The valet trotted up with the requisite fig leaf, and Woolf, smiling out of one side of his mouth, wrapped it around his waist, rode into the winner’s circle, and posed for the photo.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand

Related Words

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