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

In Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Bésame presents a naturally sweet riff on the classic daiquiri by using honey simple syrup (combine equal parts honey to hot water; mix until dissolved). —Jillian Dara, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025

In another blunt riff on contemporary politics, Marshall hosts his own Tonight Show, by this point in full fascistic uniform. —David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 15 Feb. 2025

Verb

Even the minor surprise of a movie like The Artist winning Best Picture made sense in retrospect: Hollywood has always loved flattering itself, and a movie riffing on its storied silent past was bound to find love among Academy members. —Stephanie Zacharek, TIME, 3 Mar. 2025

That same month, Sandler similarly riffed off Chalamet’s name while introducing one of his musical performances on Saturday Night Live. —EW.com, 3 Mar. 2025

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

Rhymes for riff

• biff
• cliff
• diff
• glyph
• griff
• if
• schiff
• skiff
• sniff
• stiff
• tiff
• whiff