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

The aliens generally offer riffs on the classic animal person archetype, such as the ratlike ysoki or the telepathic hive minded shirren. —Rob Wieland, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2025

The track starts with a percussive crash and fuzzy guitar riffs as McLamb gets meta about songwriting. —Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 13 Aug. 2025

Verb

In so doing, unsurprisingly, Trump then riffed on Chicago. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 12 Aug. 2025

The documentary is heartfelt and full of Chapelle’s signature humor, showcasing familiar faces — everyone from Kevin Hart, David Letterman, Jon Hamm, The Roots and Chris Rock — who stopped by on the weekends to riff, chat and dance with audiences during those summer shows. —Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 10 Aug. 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