Definition

1. Noun:

   • A short, repeated musical phrase, especially in jazz or rock music: A "riff" is a distinctive, often catchy sequence of notes, chords, or rhythms that is repeated, forming a core part of a musical piece's structure or improvisation.
   • A particular, often clever or critical, take or commentary on a subject: In a broader, informal sense, a "riff" can refer to a monologue or series of comments on a particular theme, delivered with style or humor.

2. Verb:

   • To play a short, repeated musical phrase: The act of performing a riff on a musical instrument.
   • To browse or look through something quickly or casually: To flip through pages, often without deep concentration.
   • To improvise or speak at length on a particular theme in a lively, spontaneous manner: To deliver a verbal commentary or performance in a style reminiscent of a musical riff.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

  • The guitarist played a memorable riff that became the song's signature.
  • The comedian went on a hilarious riff about modern technology.

• Verb:

  • He can riff on the bass for hours.
  • She riffed through the magazine while waiting.
  • The speaker riffed on the topic of innovation, captivating the audience.

Advanced Usage

• "to go off on a riff": to start improvising or speaking extensively and energetically on a subject.

  • During the interview, the musician went off on a riff about his creative influences.

• "riff on something": to use something as a basis for improvisation or variation.

  • The band loves to riff on classic blues progressions.

Variants and Related Words

• Riffing (gerund/noun): The act of playing or speaking in a riff-like, improvisational manner.
  • His constant riffing during practice generates great ideas.

Synonyms

• Noun: Lick (musical phrase), phrase, motif, theme.
• Verb (musical): Improvise, jam.
• Verb (browsing): Flip, skim, leaf, thumb.

Related Phrasal Verbs/Constructions

• Riff off (of) something/someone: To creatively improvise based on an existing idea or another person's work.
  • The new artist riffed off the classic melody to create something fresh.

Related Idioms

• "Trade riffs": When musicians take turns playing improvised phrases, especially in a jazz or jam session context.
  • The saxophonist and guitarist traded riffs for several thrilling minutes.

Noun

1. a jazz ostinato; usually provides a background for a solo improvisation
2. a Berber living in northern Morocco

Verb

1. play riffs
2. look through a book or other written material
   • He thumbed through the report
   • She leafed through the volume