I. ˈri-fəl verb
( rif·fled ; rif·fling ˈri-f(ə-)liŋ)
Etymology: riffle (II)
Date: 1754
intransitive verb
1. : to form, flow over, or move in riffles
2. : to flip cursorily : thumb
riffle through the catalog
transitive verb
1. : to ruffle slightly : ripple
2.
a. : to leaf through hastily ; specifically : to leaf (as a stack of paper) by sliding a thumb along the edge of the leaves
b. : to shuffle (playing cards) by separating the deck into two parts and riffling with the thumbs so the cards intermix
3. : to manipulate (small objects) idly between the fingers
II. noun
Etymology: perhaps alteration of ruffle
Date: 1785
1.
a. : a shallow extending across a streambed and causing broken water
b. : a stretch of water flowing over a riffle
2. : a small wave or succession of small waves : ripple
3.
a. : any of various contrivances (as blocks or rails) laid on the bottom of a sluice or launder to make a series of grooves or interstices to catch and retain a mineral (as gold)
b. : a groove or interstice so formed
4. : a cleat or bar fastened to an inclined surface in a gold-washing apparatus to catch and hold mineral grains
5.
[ riffle (I)]
a. : the act or process of shuffling (as cards)
b. : the sound made while doing this