riff

noun

ˈrif How to pronounce riff (audio)
Definition of riffnext
as in interpretation
a distinct treatment of something (as a story or a play) a mock news program with humorous riffs on current events

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of riff Andy once in a while plays a little riff, usually in the writing stage. — David Chiu, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025 The country’s very name is a late invention, a riff on the name of the river that runs through it—Zambezi, a word of uncertain origin. — Namwali Serpell, The New Yorker, 25 Mar. 2025 Macchio is currently wrapping up a wildly successful riff on one of his beloved early-career projects: Cobra Kai, which is a series sequel to the Karate Kid films that Macchio anchored. — Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 24 Mar. 2025 Food Kam & 46 (Section 105): The food truck-turned-vendor makes fun riffs on Hawaiian and Filipino street fare (e.g. tuna tartare or sisig nachos). — Anna Spiegel, Axios, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for riff
Recent Examples of Synonyms for riff
  1. interpretation
  2. variation
  3. version
Noun
  • Karma can be interpreted outside of a religious context, through a secular lens of interpretation of social interconnectedness.
    — Kayti Burt, Time, 4 Apr. 2025
  • Trump has used his order regarding trans athletes in particular to threaten lawsuits and loss of funding for the University of Pennsylvania and multiple educational bodies across Maine for alleged noncompliance with his interpretation of Title IX civil rights law.
    — Samantha Riedel, Them., 4 Apr. 2025
Definition of interpretation
Noun
  • Each dial variation is limited to just five pieces.
    — Matthew Catellier, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025
  • The recalled products include variations of the Egg Beaters brand, as well as the Bob Evans brand of liquid eggs.
    — Fernando Cervantes Jr., USA Today, 31 Mar. 2025
Definition of variation
Noun
  • Overall, Gemini Near Me’s goal is to empower users to become the best version of themselves by diving into self-exploration and embarking on a fascinating self-work journey—made possible by a plethora of interactive features.
    — Emma Kershaw, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
  • In Wright’s version, Powell’s character, Ben Richards, joins a television show where contestants must outrun killers in order to earn money for his sick daughter.
    — McKinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 4 Apr. 2025
Definition of version

Browse Nearby Words

rife
riff
riffle
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Cite this Entry

“Riff.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/riff. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.

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