# riff

/ˈɹɪf/ (US) · /ɹˈɪf/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/riff
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. music

noun · CEFR B2

a short, catchy part of a song that is repeated many times.

For teachers: a short, repeated melodic or rhythmic phrase, often serving as the hook or foundation of a track.

- The guitarist played a famous riff that everyone in the crowd recognized immediately.
- The song is built around a heavy, distorted bass riff that provides a dark foundation for the ethereal vocals.

Usage: Commonly used with the verbs 'play', 'write', or 'create'.

### 3. to improvise

verb · CEFR C1 · Informal

to talk or perform freely by building on an idea or a theme.

For teachers: to perform or speak in an improvisational manner, typically by expanding upon a specific topic or motif.

- The comedian started to riff on the strange decorations in the hotel lobby.
- During the interview, the director began to riff on the future of cinema, moving effortlessly from technical specs to philosophical questions.

Usage: Usually takes the preposition 'on'.

## Examples

- The song starts with a famous guitar riff.
- The bassist kept playing a simple riff while the singer talked to the audience between songs.
- The track is built around a heavy, distorted riff that repeats throughout the verses, providing a gritty texture that contrasts with the melodic chorus.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.