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

Fig leafer 

Also can be Fig leafing, Fig leafer is a derogatory term for skinny bodybuilders. The origins of the slur may come from the similarities of having a fig leaf over gentitals being visually close to that of bodybuilders wearing small bikinis bottoms. The term is used in Oregon gyms in the Salem area. It is used by powerlifters who want to jokingly put down other lifters for doing cardio and other fancy exercises that promote a lean physique.

Don't let coach Bob catch you doing cardio in those neon spandex leggings or he will forever call you a fig leafer.

Fig leafer by Bubtothemax September 1, 2017

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