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

The United Arab Emirates pushed the U.N. resolution, proposed by Bahrain, to give hesitant states the fig leaf they might need to act.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 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

“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

“Not even a fig leaf of a respectable response,” Eisinger said.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 8, 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

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