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
It’s a fig leaf so thin the merest whisper of a breeze wafts it away.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2024
“Not even a fig leaf of a respectable response,” Eisinger said.
From Seattle Times • Oct. 8, 2023
The valet trotted up with the requisite fig leaf, and Woolf, smiling out of one side of his mouth, wrapped it around his waist, rode into the winner’s circle, and posed for the photo.
From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand
