riffle
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1rif·fle
verb \ˈri-fəl\rif·fledrif·fling \ˈri-f(ə-)liŋ\
Definition of RIFFLE
intransitive verb
1
: to form, flow over, or move in riffles
2
: to flip cursorily : thumb <riffle through the catalog>
transitive verb
1
: to ruffle slightly : ripple
2
a : to leaf through hastily; specifically : to leaf (as a stack of paper) by sliding a thumb along the edge of the leaves b : to shuffle (playing cards) by separating the deck into two parts and riffling with the thumbs so the cards intermix
3
: to manipulate (small objects) idly between the fingers
See Examples of RIFFLE
- He riffled the pages of the magazine.
- <Web research is convenient but doesn't offer the tactile pleasures of riffling through heavy old books.>
Origin of RIFFLE
2riffle
First Known Use: 1754
2riffle
nounDefinition of RIFFLE
1
a : a shallow extending across a streambed and causing broken water b : a stretch of water flowing over a riffle
2
: a small wave or succession of small waves : ripple
3
a : any of various contrivances (as blocks or rails) laid on the bottom of a sluice or launder to make a series of grooves or interstices to catch and retain a mineral (as gold) b : a groove or interstice so formed
4
: a cleat or bar fastened to an inclined surface in a gold-washing apparatus to catch and hold mineral grains
5
[1riffle] a : the act or process of shuffling (as cards) b : the sound made while doing this
Origin of RIFFLE
perhaps alteration of ruffle
First Known Use: 1785
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