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
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
Alex Galbraith, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Feb. 2026
The Greenpoint is an excellent neo-classic riff on a Manhattan that was invented at Milk & Honey in New York, and comprises the classic build of Manhattan—rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters—into which has been spliced the inimitable French herbal liqueur, Yellow Chartreuse.
—Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 14 Feb. 2026
Andrea Strong, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 Feb. 2026
The cookies are slightly undercooked, which might appeal to your tastes, but the most impressive items gently riff on French classics, so focus your attention there.
—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for riff
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Noun
The alien protector of Metropolis (and, by extension, America), played with indelible charm and gravitas by Christopher Reeve, is heralded by a brass, four-note riff as simple and bold as his tricolor spandex.
—Alex Galbraith, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Feb. 2026
The Greenpoint is an excellent neo-classic riff on a Manhattan that was invented at Milk & Honey in New York, and comprises the classic build of Manhattan—rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters—into which has been spliced the inimitable French herbal liqueur, Yellow Chartreuse.
—Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 14 Feb. 2026
Verb
Chef Patty Lee, an alum of Mission Chinese, riffs off of the Chinese dishes that Annie and her late sister Lei grew up with in Queens.
—Andrea Strong, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 Feb. 2026
The cookies are slightly undercooked, which might appeal to your tastes, but the most impressive items gently riff on French classics, so focus your attention there.
—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for riff
Cite this Entry
“Riff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riff. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.
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