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

However, the tide has turned since a group of female colleagues at Australian beauty brand tbh Skincare decided to make their own riff on the meme. —Ryan Hogg, Fortune Europe, 15 July 2024

But until now, all of those designs have been riffs on the regular Pocket’s black (or white) plastic shell. —Andrew Cunningham, Ars Technica, 12 July 2024

Verb

Tensions mounted as, week after week, Ben and Jonny riffed to each other about the Bible, while Rachel and Julie had to fight to get a word in. —Eliza Griswold, The New Yorker, 30 June 2024

While presenting Album of the Year, which eventually went to Killer Mike for his acclaimed Michael, Glover riffed about his awards tally compared to Will Smith and Sam Smith. —Lester Fabian Brathwaite, EW.com, 2 July 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