NYT Dictionary

RIFF

/ɹɪf/
NounVerbRIFGrade 5

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026

Meaning

A repeated melody line in a song, usually instrumental but sometimes vocal.

Etymology

Origin: Unknown

Uncertain. Perhaps a clipping of riffle, or an alteration of refrain.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

MSTriffianflickflipthumbriffleleafcadenzachutedismiss

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 12 recorded puzzles:

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