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

In theory, this is a time for quiet reflection, to let those opening raucous religious riffs wash over you. —Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 3 May 2026

Over an efficient five tracks, West traverses the sonic styles of her generation — from nu-metal riffs to rage-rap 808s — with dazzling confidence. —Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 1 May 2026

Verb

There are baking projects like homemade bagels, riffs on fast-food favorites, and a couple of drinks to round things out. —Hannah Lee Leidy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 May 2026

The skit went on to riff on the Supreme Court’s recent decision gutting the Voting Rights Act, setting off a wave of redistricting in Southern red states to draw out Democrats. —Ted Johnson, Deadline, 9 May 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