What does riff mean?
A riff is a short, memorable phrase in music, especially a repeated instrumental passage that gives a song its character. It is commonly associated with rock, jazz, funk, and popular music, though the term can describe a striking phrase in almost any musical style. The same word can be used as a verb: musicians riff when they play an informal or improvised musical passage, and speakers riff on a topic when they discuss it freely and spontaneously. In these verbal uses, “riff on” often suggests an extended, conversational treatment rather than a formal argument or explanation. A riff is usually briefer and more rhythmically distinctive than a general melody, while a refrain is more specifically the recurring section of a song and may include lyrics.
A short, memorable or repeated musical phrase, especially an instrumental passage that functions as a prominent feature of a song.
"The song is built around a simple but infectious bass riff."
Common in discussions of popular, rock, jazz, and funk music, but also applicable more broadly.
To play or improvise a short musical passage; informally, to speak or write freely and spontaneously about a subject.
"The musicians riffed for a few minutes before returning to the main arrangement."
“Riff on” is informal and often implies a playful, exploratory, or humorous discussion.
The plural is used for distinct short musical phrases or passages.
"The guitarist played a series of fiery riffs that brought the crowd to its feet."
A riff is music’s most memorable hook: a few notes powerful enough to make a whole song recognizable.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does riff come from?
The word's precise origin is uncertain. Its musical sense developed during the early twentieth century, when short repeated instrumental phrases became a common subject of description in popular music. The related verb meaning “to improvise” also emerged in musical usage before extending figuratively to informal discussion.
Related word forms
How riff is actually used
In music, the word is widely used in British and American English and is often informal but established. The expression “riff on” is also informal and can mean discussing a subject casually, often with humorous or inventive comments.
Easily confused with riff
A refrain is the recurring part of a song, often including words, whereas a riff is primarily a short instrumental or vocal phrase.
A riff is a musical phrase or an act of casual discussion, while a riffle is a card or a way of shuffling papers.