Search
Select the dictionary language
Cauliflower ear
01
a deformity of the outer ear caused by repeated trauma, particularly common in contact sports like wrestling and boxing
Grammatical Information
animacy status
inanimate
Composition
Compound
countable
plural form
cauliflower ears
What is "cauliflower ear"?
Cauliflower ear is a condition where the outer ear becomes swollen and deformed due to repeated injury, commonly seen in sports like wrestling or boxing. It occurs when the cartilage in the ear is damaged and blood gathers between the cartilage and skin, leading to a lumpy, swollen appearance resembling a cauliflower. Without proper treatment, such as draining the gathered blood or surgery to reshape the ear, the deformity can become permanent.
Examples
The wrestler developed cauliflower ear after years of grappling without protective headgear.
