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
• 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

Musicians and audio engineers came and went, and Mikaela would sit on the couch behind them, imitating their riffs and vocal exercises. —Holden Seidlitz, New Yorker, 5 Aug. 2025

The final menu is still in development, but McCabe says guests can definitely expect to find a few French toast riffs and an M. Peppers take on poutine. —Lennie Omalza, The Courier-Journal, 5 Aug. 2025

Verb

Some bartenders specialize in tequila concoctions while others like to riff with Amaro, the herbal bittersweet liqueur. —Amanda Hancock, The Courier-Journal, 31 July 2025

There will also be three dueling pianos sessions, a crowd-pleaser with band members from various groups riffing off one another. —Jamie Siebrase, Denver Post, 24 July 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