I. ˈrif noun
Etymology: probably by shortening & alteration from refrain
Date: 1935
1. : an ostinato phrase (as in jazz) typically supporting a solo improvisation ; also : a piece based on such a phrase
2. : a rapid energetic often improvised verbal outpouring ; especially : one that is part of a comic performance
3. : a succinct usually witty comment
4. : a distinct variation : take
a disturbing… riff on the Cinderella story — Daria Donnelly
II. intransitive verb
Date: 1948
: to perform, deliver, or make use of a riff
III. verb
Etymology: short for riffle
Date: 1952
: riffle , skim
riff pages