riff

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“
Because honestly, a lot of the songs, the parts we come up with, it's like, "Wow, this riff could be a Neurosis riff."

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Definitions (10)

Toggle American Heritage definitions American Heritage Dictionary (3)

  1. noun Music A short rhythmic phrase, especially one that is repeated in improvisation.
  2. noun A clever or inventive commentary or remark: "Those little riffs that had seemed to have such sparkle over drinks ... look all too embarrassing in cold print” (John Richardson).
  3. intransitive verb To play or make riffs.

Toggle Century definitions Century Dictionary (3)

Toggle GNU Webster definitions GNU Webster's 1913

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Examples (50)

  • The lead riff is a majestic hit of flange and feedback, while the hints of sitar and Indian percussion give the song even more attractive heft. —  AvaxHome RSS:
  • Beginning with a slightly distorted guitar riff, and then suddenly jumping into life, this song is more direct than the previous track, but still retains some of the more creative elements of the band. —  Epinions Recent Content for Home
  • The opening riff is awesome, and once the drums come in it just gets better. —  Latest reviews @ Progarchives.com, the ultimate progressive rock music website
  • Finally, a solution for the riff-raff assaulting and harassing the good people of our city day and night: Tape 'em to the wall at city hall or -- better yet -- the Winnipeg Remand Centre and leave them there until they smarten up! —  Winnipeg Sun
  • Then again these guys always did know how to write a riff, and it shows on this record time and again. —  All Updates @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com
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This word has been looked up 101 times.

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Etymologies (3)

Toggle American Heritage etymologies American Heritage Dictionary (1)

  1. Origin unknown.

Toggle Century etymologies Century Dictionary (2)

  1. from Middle English *rif, from Anglo-Saxon hrif = Old Saxon hrif = OFries. rif, ref = Old High German href, ref, belly. Cf. midriff.
  2. See reef.
 

Pronunciations
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/rɪf/
by American Heritage

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