View synonyms for

fig leaf

noun

the leaf of a fig tree.
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.
something intended to conceal what may be considered indecorous or indecent:
to approach the facts of life with the fig leaves of roundabout expressions.

fig leaf

noun

a leaf from a fig tree
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
a device intended to conceal something regarded as shameful or indecent

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Word History and Origins

Origin of fig leaf¹

First recorded in 1525–35

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Even as a fig leaf, it is surprisingly persuasive: who could argue against “efficiency,” that core value of free-market capitalism?

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Her supporters say those critiques are a fig leaf for the sexism they’ve endured their entire careers.

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But for those strongly opposed to the AfD she is a fig leaf or - as one Social Democrat put it - a "wolf in sheep's clothing".

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As journalist Michael Hobbes pointed out on Bluesky, however, such rhetoric is one of the fig leaves vaccine critics use "to make their ideas seem palatable."

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These things should be understood more as fig leaves covering up a reactionary agenda.

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Related Words

figjam fig marigold

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