Synonyms for

Riff

Verb / rɪf / Another word for riff — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a short, catchy melody or instrumental passage in a song, typically repeated several times throughout the song.

Synonyms & similar words

riff flick riffle leaf riffian flip thumb lick phrase motif hook theme passage melody tune beat rhythm cadence harmony arrangement composition score song jingle sound

Synonyms by register

Formal

variation elaboration interpretation improvisation

Informal

jam noodle lick solo groove

Literary

cadenza flourish embellishment

Antonyms

whole original main theme standard basic

Common collocations

  • guitar riff
  • bass riff
  • play a riff
  • short riff
  • catchy riff
  • iconic riff
  • improvise a riff

Word family

noun riff
verb riff

Usage note

Primarily used in music, especially rock and jazz, to describe a repeated musical phrase. Can also be used informally to mean a variation or improvisation on a theme.

Example sentences

  1. The guitarist played a cool riff during the concert.
  2. The song's main riff was instantly recognizable.
  3. The band worked on the riff until it sounded perfect.
  4. The catchy riff got stuck in my head all day.
  5. The new song needed a memorable riff to stand out.

Quotes

  • "I'm not interested in being complicated or wanting to be seen as clever. I want to be catchy. I want to have a great riff. I want to move people emotionally." - Noel Gallagher
  • "Every great rock song needs a great riff." - Slash
  • "I don't think people should try to be too clever with their music. It's about the riff, the lyrics and singing from the heart." - Angus Young

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