riff
pronunciation
How to pronounce riff in British English:
UK [rɪf]
How to pronounce riff in American English:
US [rɪf]
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- Noun:
- a jazz ostinato; usually provides a background for a solo improvisation
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- Verb:
- look through a book or other written material
- play riffs
Word Origin
- riff (n.)
- "melodic phrase in jazz," 1935 (but said to have been used by musicians since c. 1917), of uncertain origin, perhaps a shortened form of riffle, or altered from refrain. The verb is attested from 1942, from the noun. Also in extended use. Related: Riffed; riffing.
Example
- 1. But when he starts his riff the claws come out .
- 2. That 's why that riff sucks .
- 3. The impetus for the marketing riff was the company 's release of a computer with an optical drive that burned cds as well as reading them .
- 4. In jazz music , a riff ias simple melodic figure .
- 5. I still keep a picture of jr. walker and me doing a riff together .