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

Food and drink The fifth-floor BAHR with its open kitchen showcases his distinctive flavor combinations with plates like prawn rissoles (a Portuguese snack) as well as riffs on traditional dishes like pork with clams. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

This riff takes some liberties, by using a full cup of cream and either pancetta or bacon. —Deputy Food Editor, Los Angeles Times, 31 May 2026

Verb

One night, Easter had the idea to riff on the pickleback, a shot of pickle brine served alongside a shot, by draining off the liquid from pico de gallo. —Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 29 May 2026

Similarly, the tutorial features a prologue that riffs on Bruce's training with Ra's al Ghul and the League of Shadows in Christopher Nolan's Batman Begins. —Gabriel Zamora, PC Magazine, 26 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