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

Other brassica plants, like cauliflower, may also not be the best choice for growing near grapevines. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2026

Riced cauliflower is very low in calories and carbohydrates. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 8 Apr. 2026

Broccoli and cauliflower can also be planted in Boise in the early spring, according to the National Gardening Association. —McClatchy, Idaho Statesman, 5 Apr. 2026

The flavors of the cauliflower and cherry tomatoes develop and become concentrated while the chickpeas get nicely crisped. —Deputy Food Editor, Los Angeles Times, 5 Apr. 2026

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
• Romanesco cauliflower

Rhymes for cauliflower

• candlepower
• overpower
• superpower
• vavasour
• waterpower
• airpower
• brainpower
• devour
• empower
• firepower
• horsepower
• manpower

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