fig leaf
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The United Arab Emirates pushed the U.N. resolution, proposed by Bahrain, to give hesitant states the fig leaf they might need to act.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026
“This is just a fig leaf to deflect from criticism,” Ocasio-Cortez posted on X External link in response to Kalshi’s new measures.
From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026
Even as a fig leaf, it is surprisingly persuasive: who could argue against “efficiency,” that core value of free-market capitalism?
From Salon • Apr. 27, 2025
It’s a fig leaf so thin the merest whisper of a breeze wafts it away.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2024
They arranged some type of work for us to do in the courtyard, but it was merely a fig leaf to hide their capitulation.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
