Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
fig-leaf
noun
/ˈfɪɡ liːf/
Definition
A large leaf of a fig tree, often used metaphorically to refer to a cover-up or a superficial layer masking a more significant issue.
Examples
- The company’s green policies seemed like a fig-leaf to cover up their harmful practices.
- His apology was merely a fig-leaf, not a genuine expression of regret.
Meaning
The term ‘fig-leaf’ is often used to imply that something is being disguised to hide its true nature or to make it more socially acceptable.
Synonyms
- cover-up
- pretense
- disguise
- smokescreen
- facade
