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
Federal agents are going through people's phones, going into homes without a warrant, under the fig leaf of this 230-year-old Alien Enemies Act.
—
Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025
Meanwhile, another lush option is a fig leaf folded into the Ledena cuff.
—Lily Templeton, WWD, 13 Mar. 2025
Barring stop-work orders to extend programs into the future destroys the fig leaf of just ensuring that NGOs don’t get stiffed.
—The Editors, National Review, 6 Mar. 2025
Don't be surprised to see a similar fig leaf get floated.
—Dan Primack, Axios, 7 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for fig leaf
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025
Meanwhile, another lush option is a fig leaf folded into the Ledena cuff.
—Lily Templeton, WWD, 13 Mar. 2025
Barring stop-work orders to extend programs into the future destroys the fig leaf of just ensuring that NGOs don’t get stiffed.
—The Editors, National Review, 6 Mar. 2025
Don't be surprised to see a similar fig leaf get floated.
—Dan Primack, Axios, 7 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for fig leaf
Cite this Entry
“Fig leaf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fig%20leaf. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share