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

Flip cauliflower right side up, and use a brush to evenly coat cauliflower with remaining seasoning mixture. —Amanda Stanfield, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2024

Herby Cauliflower Fritters Frozen cauliflower deserves to be more than a side. —June Kim, Bon Appétit, 1 Oct. 2024

Riced Cauliflower Riced cauliflower is a popular rice alternative for those following low-carb diets. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 1 Oct. 2024

These leafy greens are part of the Brassica family, which also includes broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and kale. —Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Sep. 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