First Known Use: 1754
Dictionary
1riffle
verb rif·fle \ˈri-fəl\
: to look through something quickly and not very closely
rif·fledrif·fling \ˈri-f(ə-)liŋ\
Full Definition of RIFFLE
intransitive verb
1
: to form, flow over, or move in riffles
2
: to flip cursorily : thumb <riffle through the catalog>
transitive verb
1
: to ruffle slightly : ripple
2
a : to leaf through hastily; specifically : to leaf (as a stack of paper) by sliding a thumb along the edge of the leaves b : to shuffle (playing cards) by separating the deck into two parts and riffling with the thumbs so the cards intermix
3
: to manipulate (small objects) idly between the fingers
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Origin of RIFFLE
2riffle
2riffle
noun
Definition of RIFFLE
1
a : a shallow extending across a streambed and causing broken water b : a stretch of water flowing over a riffle
2
: a small wave or succession of small waves : ripple
3
a : any of various contrivances (as blocks or rails) laid on the bottom of a sluice or launder to make a series of grooves or interstices to catch and retain a mineral (as gold) b : a groove or interstice so formed
4
: a cleat or bar fastened to an inclined surface in a gold-washing apparatus to catch and hold mineral grains
5
[1riffle] a : the act or process of shuffling (as cards) b : the sound made while doing this
Origin of RIFFLE
perhaps alteration of ruffle
First Known Use: 1785
RIFFLE Defined for Kids
1riffle
verb rif·fle \ˈri-fəl\
rif·fledrif·fling
Definition of RIFFLE for Kids
1
: to move lightly <Wind riffled the bird's feathers.>
2
: to look through quickly <I riffled through a magazine.>
2riffle
noun
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