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 of riff

Noun

• interpretation
• variation
• version

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 dish begins as a riff on a recipe most associated with Hat Yai, the largest city in southern Thailand. —Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 8 Jan. 2026

When the riff drops in a Slipknot song. —Sam Sodomsky, Pitchfork, 7 Jan. 2026

Verb

Of course, as Republicans in a state with plenty of policy failures to riff on, Bianco and Hilton say a lot of the same things. —Sal Rodriguez, Oc Register, 23 Jan. 2026

At their core, those melodies are resolutely straightforward, the better not to get in the way of the sentiments, and they’re effectively mirrored by Walker’s almost sing-songy guitar riffs. —Brad Sanders, Pitchfork, 17 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

probably by shortening & alteration from refrain

Verb (2)

short for riffle

First Known Use

Noun

1933, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb (1)

1935, in the meaning defined above

Verb (2)

1942, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for riff

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