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Definition of riff


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riff  audio  (rf) KEY  

NOUN:
  1. Music A short rhythmic phrase, especially one that is repeated in improvisation.
  2. 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).
intr.v.
Music riffed , riff·ing , riffs
To play or make riffs.

ETYMOLOGY:
Origin unknown


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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition.
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
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