riff

1 of 3

noun

ˈrif 

1

: an ostinato phrase (as in jazz) typically supporting a solo improvisation

also : a piece based on such a phrase

2

: a rapid energetic often improvised verbal outpouring

especially : one that is part of a comic performance

3

: a succinct usually witty comment

4

: a distinct variation : take

a disturbing … riff on the Cinderella story

—Daria Donnelly

riff

2 of 3

verb (1)

riffed; riffing; riffs

intransitive verb

: to perform, deliver, or make use of a riff

riff

3 of 3

verb (2)

riffed; riffing; riffs

: riffle, skim

riff pages

Synonyms

Noun

• interpretation
• take
• variation

Examples of riff in a Sentence

Noun

He stole that riff from another song.

a mock news program with humorous riffs on current events

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The pits end up as an amaretto riff, which lends a nutty, marzipan note to Civil Pours’ whiskey sour. —Kate Dingwall, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2024

The pop single manages to capture the magic of legendary Argentine rock riffs and the essence of the music of that golden age. —Ingrid Fajardo, Billboard, 22 Nov. 2024

Verb

Here's how to get one There are several Easter eggs throughout the film referencing Swift's lyrics, and the plot is unmistakably meant to riff on the real-life romance that has captivated football fans and Swifties alike. —Anna Kaufman, USA TODAY, 29 Nov. 2024

That human, who is an expert plasma physicist, then chooses which experiment to riff on with further parameter tweaks. —IEEE Spectrum, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

probably by shortening & alteration from refrain

Verb (2)

short for riffle

First Known Use

Noun

1935, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb (1)

1948, in the meaning defined above

Verb (2)

1952, in the meaning defined above