1.The leaf from a fig tree.
2.An ornamental design shaped like the leaf of a fig tree, used in architecture; also, a design shaped like a fig leaf to cover genitalia in sculpture or paintings in reference to the biblical story in Genesis of Adam and Eve, who covered their privates with fig leaves.
3.Hence: (figurative) Anything used to conceal what is considered embarrassing or indecent. See sense 2.
