riff

1 of 3

noun

ˈrif How to pronounce riff (audio)
Synonyms of riff
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

Relevance

Noun

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

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
Once the hallmark of bikers, sailors, and general riff-raff, tattoos have become far more mainstream, decorating the bodies of everyone from teachers to lawyers to world-class surgeons. — Mike McRae 09, New Atlas, 9 Oct. 2026 But recording the riffs is the end of a long process of watching bad movies — a regimen that few would recommend, including the stars of the show. — Joe Otterson, Variety, 9 Oct. 2026
Verb
But that night, as the drinks flowed, Pattinson couldn’t help but riff on what an actor might do with the character. — Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 12 Oct. 2026 Another kebab riffs on dombeh, or lamb tail fat, sometimes layered with skewered meats to render during grilling. — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 8 Oct. 2026 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

1933, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb (1)

1935, in the meaning defined above

Verb (2)

1942, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of riff was in 1933

Rhymes for riff

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Browse Nearby Words

rife with
riff
Riffian
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Riff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riff. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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