fig leaf

fig leaf

noun

Definition of FIG LEAF

1

: the leaf of a fig tree

2

[from the use by Adam and Eve of fig leaves to cover their nakedness after eating the forbidden fruit (Gen. 3:7)] : something that conceals or camouflages usually inadequately or dishonestly

Examples of FIG LEAF

1. Opponents claim that the humanitarian goals of the project are just a fig leaf, and that its real purpose is to make money.

First Known Use of FIG LEAF

14th century

Rhymes with FIG LEAF

bay leaf, belief, crew chief, debrief, drop leaf, endleaf, enfeoff, fire chief, flyleaf, gold leaf, in brief, in chief, kerchief, loose-leaf, massif, motif, naïf, O'Keeffe, red leaf, relief, sharif, shinleaf, sneak thief, Tallchief