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(METAPHOR) relatively transparent ruse to hide something embarrassing behind something good, or something neutral. For example, a man may attempt to hit on a woman by attempting to get her involved in bible study. The woman would ordinarily find being hit on disagreeable or even offensive, so the man conceals his intentions as something considered good.

Comes from the tradition of Renaissance artists using figleaves to conceal the genitalia of nude subjects.
During the lead up to the invasion of Iraq, neoconservatives used concern for the the welfare of Iraqis under Saddam's oppressive rule as a figleaf for their bloodlust.
figleaf by Primus Intra Pares July 25, 2010
Related Words

figleafing

verb: to Figleaf.
This action (usually made by a man) involves using the arms or other objects to protect the family jewls.
can be unintentional or intentional depending on the situation.
To cover one's buldge for a photo or other such viewing or protecting needs.
Comes from the use of Figleaves to cover male genitalia in art and whatnot.
"I hate the stock photos of male swim teams. Every guy is figleafing it!"
"That guy just totally figleafed it after seeing his buddy get hit in the groin"
"stop figleafing, I'm not gunna to hit ya"

faleaf child 

I gave her a faleaf child.
faleaf child by KBthaKing November 21, 2017

sans sheriff 

Lawless use of fonts or typography, with no regard to aesthetics or legibility
I'm putting this CV straight in the bin. Written totally sans sheriff.
sans sheriff by Jamarley July 3, 2019

Breadhead 

Someone who is addicted to obtaining money and building wealth. A money addict and fanatic. Breadheads often work more than one full-time job, and some even participate in illicit activities to "obtain the bread".
A breadhead is like a crackhead, but for money instead of crack.
Breadhead by 🅱️ U S 3 4 8 March 30, 2022

Stink lines

As seen in illustrations or cartoons: Wavy, vertical lines rising above a person, place or thing. Denotes a foul odor.
"You didn't put enough stink lines on your picture of the teacher."
Stink lines by Athene Airheart March 14, 2004