( fig leaves)
1.
A fig leaf is a large leaf which comes from the fig tree. A fig leaf is sometimes used in painting and sculpture to cover the genitals of a naked body.
N-COUNT
2.
People sometimes refer disapprovingly to something which is intended to hide or prevent an embarrassing situation as a fig leaf . ( JOURNALISM )
This deal is little more than a fig leaf for the continued destruction of the landscape.
N-COUNT : usu with supp [ disapproval ]