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
He shows some illustrations from his edition of the good book, which include a baby Trump in the Moses basket and Trump as Adam, naked except for a fig leaf.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 31, 2024
“To allow them to have this fig leaf of hypotheticals and all that nonsense? They know what they’re doing.”
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 14, 2023
Sinjin took in the sight of the man in the fig leaf trying to commune with the ergo chair.
From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray
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.
