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

The band first announced the forthcoming Christmas movie — which premieres on Disney+ — via Good Morning America in January, sharing a clip on X that featured a riff that famous Love Actually cue card scene and was then posted by the band and Disney+ on social media. —Daniela Avila, PEOPLE, 10 Nov. 2025

Yeah, kudos to Paramount+ for attempting to add a little drama to their bumper, opting for a jazzier riff over a simple three-note intro. —Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 6 Nov. 2025

Verb

Currently on the menu, the Silken Spy ($16) riffs on James Bond’s favorite cocktail, the Vesper. —Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 21 Nov. 2025

Epstein and the other person continued to riff on the idea and appear to be referring to the impending November midterm election in 2018 as the Holocaust. —Shirsho Dasgupta, Miami Herald, 15 Nov. 2025

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