figleaf 

(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

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"

figleafing by Cloudyjuicebox May 9, 2006

fagleaf 

A stupid, annoying character in a video game that is most likely in the way. They may be put there for effect and cuteness but they are unnecessary and people playing the game usually use friendly fire on them. I.E.: The little bears in Star Wars Battlefront Ps2 version.

Wow, I love playing this game but there are so many fagleaf characters in the way.

fagleaf by #alldayswag July 30, 2014

fig leaf 

A small/minimal cover/pretext/justification to undertake an action.

Derived from Genesis 3:7, where Adam and Eve hid their genitals with fig leaves to cover their nakedness.

He doesn't have even a fucking fig leaf to hide behind...

They are clinging to this fig leaf and playing dumb...

fig leaf by theskyishigh November 25, 2019