fig leaf

noun

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 (Genesis 3:7)] : something that conceals or camouflages usually inadequately or dishonestly

Examples of fig leaf in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

But the waste disposal issue provides a fig leaf to nuclear skeptics. — U T Editorial Board, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Dec. 2025

But for houses connected to public water and sewer, lot size rules are arbitrary, lacking even a fig leaf of public health or safety concern. — Salim Furth, Boston Herald, 28 Feb. 2026

The fig leaf conditional nature of the requirement makes little difference. — Dan Gooding, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Oct. 2025

Critics, however, argued that the focus on local control was a fig leaf for austerity and dismantling the welfare state. — National Correspondent, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for fig leaf

• belief
• broadleaf
• debrief
• flyleaf
• khalif
• kharif
• longleaf
• massif
• motif
• relief
• saif
• serif