Definition

1. Noun:

   • A method of shuffling playing cards: A riffle involves splitting a deck into two halves and interleaving the cards by releasing them from the thumbs so they mix together.
   • A small wave or ripple on the surface of a liquid: A riffle is a light disturbance on water, often caused by wind or a gentle current.

2. Verb:

   • To shuffle cards using the riffle method: To mix playing cards by dividing the deck and interweaving the two halves.
   • To create or form small waves or ripples: To stir water lightly, causing a rippled surface.
   • To browse or look through something quickly: To turn over pages, papers, or similar materials in a rapid, casual manner to get a general impression.
   • To flutter or flip lightly and quickly: To move or cause something to move with a light, quick motion.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The dealer gave the cards a quick riffle before dealing.
  • A gentle breeze created riffles on the surface of the pond.

• Verb:

  • Please riffle the deck thoroughly before we start the game.
  • The wind riffled the calm surface of the lake.
  • She riffled through the magazine while waiting for her appointment.
  • The pages riffled in the wind.

Advanced Usage

• "to riffle through": This phrasal verb is commonly used to mean browsing quickly through papers, a book, or a stack of items.
  • He riffled through the files on his desk, looking for the contract.

Variants and Related Words

• Riffler (n): A tool, such as a small file, used in carving or sculpting. (Note: This is a distinct, homographic word with a different etymology and meaning related to tools, not directly derived from the verb 'riffle').
• Ripple (n/v): A small wave or series of waves; to form or flow with small waves. This is a close synonym for the noun and verb forms related to water.

Synonyms

• Shuffle (v): To mix cards, especially in preparation for a game.
• Browse (v): To look through or glance at something casually.
• Flip (v): To move or turn something with a quick, light motion.
• Ripple (n/v): A small wave; to form small waves.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Riffle through: To look through something quickly by turning over pages or items.
  • I saw him riffle through the documents on the table.

Related Idioms

Noun

1. shuffling by splitting the pack and interweaving the two halves at their corners
2. a small wave on the surface of a liquid

Verb

1. shuffle (playing cards) by separating the deck into two parts and riffling with the thumbs so the cards intermix
2. stir up (water) so as to form ripples
3. look through a book or other written material
   • He thumbed through the report
   • She leafed through the volume
4. twitch or flutter
   • the paper flicked