from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Cauliflower \Cau"li*flow`er\, n. [F. choufleur, modified by E.
Cole. L. caulis, and by E. flower; F. chou cabbage is fr. L.
caulis stalk, cabbage, and fleur flower is fr. L. flos
flower. See {Cole}, and {Flower}.]
1. (Bot.) An annual variety of {Brassica oleracea}, or
cabbage, of which the cluster of young flower stalks and
buds is eaten as a vegetable.
[1913 Webster]
2. The edible head or "curd" of a cauliflower plant.
[1913 Webster]