cauliflower

noun

cau·​li·​flow·​er ˈkȯ-li-ˌflau̇(-ə)r  ˈkä- 

-lē-

often attributive

: a garden plant (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) related to the cabbage and grown for its compact edible head of usually white undeveloped flowers

also : its flower cluster used as a vegetable

Examples of cauliflower in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Great options include rice, polenta, mashed potatoes or mashed cauliflower, couscous, quinoa, bulger or other grains or egg noodles. —Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 5 Dec. 2024

Stock up on cold-hardy vegetables like kale, carrots, spinach, rutabaga, daikon, cauliflower, leeks, and parsnips and use them in hearty winter dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 26 Nov. 2024

The adorable creations feature beautiful muted tones and whimsical offerings like cauliflowers, bride and groom egg yolks and bunny rabbits in cupcake wrappers that appeal to a young girl’s growing sense of humor. —Bea McMonagle, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024

Pair hummus with tabbouleh, whole grain rice, or cauliflower rice for a delicious plant-forward side dish. —Aviv Joshua, Verywell Health, 20 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Italian cavolfiore, from cavolo cabbage (from Late Latin caulus, from Latin caulis stem, cabbage) + fiore flower, from Latin flor-, flos — more at cole, blow

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing cauliflower

• cauliflower ear

Kids Definition

cauliflower

noun

cau·​li·​flow·​er ˈkȯ-li-ˌflau̇(-ə)r 

: a garden plant closely related to the cabbage and grown for its compact edible head of usually white undeveloped flowers