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

This fascinating riff on a cyber-noir ghost story is set in 3025, where the dead can be resurrected as holographic specters. — Literary Hub, 2 Nov. 2026

No, the Foos didn’t augment their lineup with a synth of a saxophone player, instead lead guitarist Chris Shiflett interpreted that famous riff. — Lars Brandle, Billboard, 30 Oct. 2026

Verb

Higgins riffs amusingly on his obsequious toad from Slow Horses, but lacks the steely calculation behind the easy smile. — Demetrios Matheou, HollywoodReporter, 2 Nov. 2026

Trump’s campaign trail riffs about anatomy might be confounding. — Kate Andrews, Washington Post, 1 Nov. 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