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

Noun

• interpretation
• take
• variation

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

Aside from margaritas, Grand Marnier offers nuance to a variety of cocktails including a riff on Tom Collins by using the bitter orange liqueur in place of a gin base for a fresher option (1.5 oz Grand Marnier, 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice, 1 barspoons simple syrup, 3 oz soda water). —Jillian Dara, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025

Charlie Bird is a restaurant in New York City, where a riff on chef Ryan Hardy’s original farro salad is still on the menu. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 May 2025

Verb

Back then, Novak was riffing on the sparkly dress and brooch that Joan Crawford had worn in The Bride Wore Red (1937). —Olivia B. Waxman, Time, 5 May 2025

Is a particular element of this movie meant to riff on The Boys? —Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 1 May 2025

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

Rhymes for riff

• biff
• cliff
• diff
• glyph
• griff
• if
• schiff
• skiff
• sniff
• stiff
• tiff
• whiff