an esculent vegetable of many varieties, derived from the wild brassica oleracea of europe. the common cabbage has a compact head of leaves. the cauliflower, brussels sprouts, etc., are sometimes classed as cabbages.-the terminal bud of certain palm trees, used, like, cabbage, for food. see cabbage tree, below.-the cabbage palmetto. see below.-to form a head like that the cabbage; as, to make lettuce cabbage.-to purloin or embezzle, as the pieces of cloth remaining after cutting out a garment; to pilfer.-cloth or clippings cabbaged or purloined by one who cuts out garments.