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
Daria Donnelly
riffed; riffing; riffs
: to perform, deliver, or make use of a riff
Synonyms
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
Tina Isaac-Goizé, Vogue, 23 Jan. 2025
Her series of 1-2-3 books are filled with recipes that are strong as is, but are just as friendly to riffs and adaptations.
—Wilder Davies, Bon Appétit, 17 Jan. 2025
Vox Staff, Vox, 23 Jan. 2025
Wickline delivered one of her signature songs that riffed on Sabrina Carpenter and Wickline’s effort to spark internet rumors about her sexuality in order to boost her career.
—Andrés Buenahora, Variety, 15 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for riff 
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Noun
From the Louis Vuitton spring 2018 collection by Nicolas Ghesquière, a sporty, urban riff on 18th century French style, one of several pieces by the designer included in this show.
—Tina Isaac-Goizé, Vogue, 23 Jan. 2025
Her series of 1-2-3 books are filled with recipes that are strong as is, but are just as friendly to riffs and adaptations.
—Wilder Davies, Bon Appétit, 17 Jan. 2025
Verb
The second is Rally Trump, who riffs in front of a cheering crowd and is wild, aggressive, and more true to the person that Trump really is.
—Vox Staff, Vox, 23 Jan. 2025
Wickline delivered one of her signature songs that riffed on Sabrina Carpenter and Wickline’s effort to spark internet rumors about her sexuality in order to boost her career.
—Andrés Buenahora, Variety, 15 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for riff
Dictionary Entries Near riff
Cite this Entry
“Riff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riff. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.
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