riff

1 of 3

noun

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 storyDaria 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

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
But his riff on American competitiveness, and the need for more smart immigrants, became infamous on the nationalist right. David Weigel, semafor.com, 6 June 2025 Staged in the bowels of the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, this year’s showcase began in a space featuring three clever riffs on the limitless potential of ceramics. Liam Hess, Vogue, 30 May 2025
Verb
There are dozens of poems riffing on Aesop’s fable about the cricket and grasshopper. Hannah Brooks-Motl june 2, Literary Hub, 2 June 2025 One of Clausen’s greatest strengths was that ability to write in many different styles, from symphonic to jazzy to contemporary, sometimes riffing on famous film scores or other pop-cultural references, and do it in as little as a few seconds, just enough to make a comedic point. Jon Burlingame, Variety, 30 May 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Riff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riff. Accessed 11 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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