riff

1 of 3

noun

ˈrif How to pronounce riff (audio)
Synonyms of riffnext
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

Noun

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
During that performance, Roan wore a pink gingham leather set by designer Zana Bayne—a riff on cowboy buckskins—and performed in front of a green screen with a giant tree and small critters dancing along to the song. — Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 14 Mar. 2025 Delicate vocals and instrumental textures kept colliding into heavy riff explosions that felt equally aligned with Black Sabbath and post-rock. — Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Rolling Stone, 13 Mar. 2025
Verb
For example, riff on a margarita by using kiwi to replace the classic sweeteners of triple sec and agave nectar. — Jillian Dara, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 Those youths, aged 14 to 17, also chose the music for the exhibition, and worked with Storey and his team to create new designs that riffed on the clothing in the show. — Samantha Conti, WWD, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for riff

Word History

Etymology

Noun

probably by shortening & alteration from refrain

Verb (2)

short for riffle

First Known Use

Noun

1935, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb (1)

1948, in the meaning defined above

Verb (2)

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of riff was in 1935

Rhymes for riff

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Browse Nearby Words

riff
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Cite this Entry

“Riff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riff. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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