(pronounced RIHF)

This succinct word embodies a great deal of energy and, thereby, represents its various meanings quite well. Used as a noun, it can mean a) a quick, solo musical improvisation by a performer; b) a short-n-snappy, witty comment; c) a fast-n-funny, often off-the-cuff, verbal outburst; or d) an interpretation of a component of a composition when creating something new. Likewise, the term can be transformed into a verb when describing the delivery of any of these things.

Example: When Frank began concepting a design for the talk show’s new set, he riffed on the sleek, simplistic elements found in the talk show sets from the 1950s, interpreting them in new materials for a fresh approach.