fig leaf noun
plural ∼ leaves [count] 1 : the leaf of a fig tree ◊In works of art, such as paintings and sculptures, naked people have sometimes been shown with a fig leaf covering their sexual organs. 2 : something that prevents embarrassment or criticism by covering or hiding something
▪ Opponents claim that the humanitarian goals of the project are just a fig leaf, and that its real purpose is to make money.
▪ Opponents claim that the humanitarian goals of the project are just a fig leaf, and that its real purpose is to make money.
