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Definitions

riff

[rif] / rɪf /
NOUN
condition
Synonyms
STRONGEST
action case plight position quality situation status
STRONG
ballgame estate happening mode order posture predicament rank repair reputation scene shape sphere spot standing state trim
WEAK
how it goes how things are how things stack up lay of the land like it is size of it state of affairs status quo way things are way things shape up where it's at
VERB
leaf
Synonyms
STRONG
browse glance riffle scan skim thumb
WEAK
dip into run through
VERB
scan
Synonyms
STRONGEST
browse check examine flash flip through leaf through look through scour search skim thumb through
STRONG
consider contemplate inquire investigate look overlook regard riffle rumble study survey sweep
WEAK
dip into give the once-over glance at glance over have a look-see look up and down run over run through size up take a gander take stock of
Antonyms
STRONG
discard disregard forget ignore look away neglect
VERB
skim
Synonyms
STRONGEST
browse flip through glance leaf through scan skip thumb through
STRONG
dip examine read riffle
WEAK
brush over get the cream give the once-over glance over go once over lightly hit the high spots read swiftly run eye over turn the pages
Antonyms
WEAK
pour

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Can’t Stop” starts with an uncharacteristically spare riff by Frusciante’s standards, and coupled with Chad Smith’s inerrant rhythm, we have the song’s spine.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

Since then, the 79-year-old Republican has rarely missed an opportunity to discuss the project, frequently meandering in mid-speech on other topics to riff about the architectural details of the proposed facility.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

A cartoon maritime odyssey, powered by what Ricky Wilson called "the stupidest riff you ever heard", it became one of the first independent hits on the American new wave scene, selling more than 20,000 copies.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

Kurt Cobain strummed the grunge anthem’s iconic four-chord opening riff on a 1969 Fender Mustang, Lake Placid Blue with a signature racing stripe.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 2, 2026

Then Elijah started playing a great riff on his bass, which turned out to be the opening of “Seven Nation Army.”

From "Auggie & Me" by R. J. Palacio