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

Even the song’s big moment—the climactic return—is muted and tentative here, as what should be the triumphant riff stalls out before its final note. —Stephen M. Deusner, Pitchfork, 27 Apr. 2026

From the pristine production to the runs and riffs, Kehlani puts on a masterclass of technical songbuilding and lyrical storytelling. —Adelle Platon, VIBE.com, 27 Apr. 2026

Verb

Her harshest barb riffed on a famous Maybelline mascara ad. —ABC News, 24 Apr. 2026

And for Michael Kosta, who made the best argument for alternative energy this Earth Day, getting Ryan to riff on the evils of crypto was a true get. —Bethy Squires, Vulture, 24 Apr. 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